
^nffleiif^i]^ 



tEGE 




TiiiJiHir 



i 




"''''1111 



li i 




iliiiliiii 

11 i I 



■ 

iiil 










lass 



liOOK 






PREyENTICD ir>' 



^ 

s 






X 











^J1^ 



i¥ 



^^ 



1 r^ b 



^ 4^^lKI 







T 



fa 
o 

< 



c 

c 
> 



DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF 
HAMILTON COLLEGE 




CLINTON, NEW YORK 

PUBLISHED BY THE COLLEGE 

1922 



uV 



v\ 



%^ 









PRINTING AND BINDING BV 

J. B. LYON COMPANY 

ALBANY, N. Y. 



'V) 



CONTENTS 



PAGE 

The Centenary of Hamilton College, by Elihu Root i 

Documents illustrating the History of the College 23 

Address at the Dedication of the Kirkland Monument, by 

Horatio Seymour 263 

Address at the Unveiling of the Statue of Alexander 

Hamilton, by Elihu Root 275 



FACSIMILES 



The Interest of Washington and Hamilton in the Acad- 
emy. From the Journal of Samuel Kirkland, 1792- 
'1793 Frontispiece 

Title Page of The Laws of Hamilton College, 181^, the 
first Publication of the College 135 

Plan of the Campus in 1850-1853, from a Sketch by 
Oren Root 254 

Plan of the Campus in 1868, from a Sketch by Oren 
Root 254 

[iiil 



PREFACE 



The present volume brings together all the available primary 
records relating to Samuel Kirkland's Plan of Education and 
the history of Hamilton Oneida Academy, the laws of New 
York and the proceedings of the Regents of the University of 
the State of New York so far as they relate to the Academy 
and the College, and selections from the proceedings of the 
Trustees and other papers of significance that illustrate the 
history of the College down to the semi-centennial in 1862. 

The documents are copied from the originals in the College 
Library except as otherwise indicated. Those relating to the 
Plan of Education and the history of the Academy are for 
the most part selected from the Kirkland manuscripts deposited 
in the College Library by the courtesy of Thornton Kirkland 
Lothrop, Esq., of Boston, Mass. The extracts from the pro- 
ceedings of the Regents are printed from a transcript kindly 
furnished by the Secretary of the Board. 

The editors express their thanks to Mr. Nathaniel L. Good- 
rich, the Librarian of Dartmouth College, and to the authori- 
ties of the New York State Library and of the Massachusetts 
Historical Society for their help in obtaining copies of import- 
ant papers ; to Senator Elihu Root for his counsel in the selec- 
tion of papers to be included; and to Dr. Alexander Coburn 
Soper and the friends of the College associated with him for 
assistance which made possible the publication of the book. 

Joseph D. Ibbotson 
S. N. D. North 

Chnton, May 29, 1922. 

[v] 



THE CENTENARY 
OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 

ELIHU ROOT 



THE CENTENARY OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 

Historical Address by Elihu Root, June 17, 1912 
Modern research in the field of evolution tends to increase 
greatly the apparent importance of inherited as distinguished 
from acquired characteristics, in the determination of indi- 
vidual qualities. It appears that from generation to genera- 
tion the transmission of microscopic determinants fixes, in 
accordance with established laws already partly discerned, 
many of the most important characteristics which go to make 
up the individual. A close analogy may be found in the 
spiritual succession by which the original qualities and stand- 
ards of an old institution are transmitted through a long and 
continually changing series of individual members who differ 
widely from each other, but who, coming find, and going 
leave, the institution always essentially the same. Great endow- 
ments, stately buildings, public favor and prosperity, cannot 
produce or take the place of that indefinable and mysterious 
quality which has been transmitted from a remote past, which 
has persisted through many changing years and many pass- 
ing lives, and which gives to the institution a personality of 
its own, a continuance of the life breathed into it at the 
moment of its birth. Each new human element that enters 
into the work of such an institution comes under the domina- 
tion not of this man or that, but of the potent spirit which 
gave life to the institution and moulds its traditions, its habits 
of thought and feeling and action, its purposes and its 
aspirations. 

The true history of such an institution must be the story of 
the outward working of this informing spirit, and it is only in 
the origin that we can find understanding of all that follows. 
The granting of the college charter to Hamilton College 
one hundred years ago was but an incident in the development 
of an institution already established. The application for the 

[3] 



4 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

charter is described in the Journal of the Regents of the Uni- 
versity of the State of New York, at its meeting of Febru- 
ary 17, 1812, as — 

A petition from the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy praying that 
the said Academy may be invested with collegiate powers and privileges. 

The minutes of the meeting of the regents on March 10, 1812, 
contained this entry: 

The committee to whom was referred the application for a college in 
Oneida County and that Hamilton Oneida Academy be erected into a 
college, report that, in their opinion, the prayer of the applicants ought to 
be granted. 

The charter, which was reported by Chief Justice Kent at 
the meeting of the regents on March 22, 1812, begins with 
the recital : 

Whereas, The Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy, in conjunction 
with many of the citizens of the Western district of this State, have by 
their petition made known to us that they, the said applicants, were 
minded to found a college by engrafting the same on the said Academy 
at or near the site of said Academy in the town of Paris, in the County 
of Oneida, and have signified to us that the name thereof shall be Hamilton 
College. 

For the origin of our college we must go back to the begin- 
ning of the academy which was thus '" invested with collegiate 
powers and privileges," which was " erected into a college," 
upon which a college was " engrafted." The beginning of 
the academy appears in the Journal of the Regents of the 
University of the State for January 29, 1793. There were 
present : *' His Excellency, the Chancellor of the University 
(George Clinton) ; the Vice-Chancellor (John Rodgers) ; 
Pierre Van Cortland, Esq., Lieutenant-Governor of this 
State ; Lewis Morris, Benjamin Moore, Philip Schuyler, 
Gulian Ver Planck, Mathew Clarkson " — great names in the 
history of the state. 

The minute reads : 

The respective applications of Samuel Kirkland and seven other persons 
praying that Alexander Hamilton and fifteen other persons for that pur- 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 5 

pose nominated may be incorporated by the name and style of " The 
Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy " at Whites Town, in the County 
of Herkimer; and of Joseph Yates and twenty-three other persons pray- 
ing that Abram Yates, Junior, and twenty-three other persons nominated 
in the said application may be incorporated by the style of " The Trustees 
of the Academy of the Town of Schenectady," in the County of Albany, 
subject nevertheless to be changed into the name of the most liberal 
benefactor; were severally read and committed to the Vice-Chancellor 
General Clarkson and Mr. Ver Planck. 

The committee named reported favorably at the same meeting, 
whereupon the minute proceeds : 

The Board resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take the 
above report into consideration, and after some time spent thereon the 
Chancellor reassumed the chair, and General Schuyler, from the said 
committee, reported that they had agreed to the report of the sub-committee. 
Whereupon, 

Resolved, That the Board agree to the said report. Ordered, That the 
Secretary prepare instruments in the usual form for incorporating the said 
Alexander Hamilton and the said fifteen other persons for that purpose 
named, and the said Abram Yates and the said twenty-three other persons 
named in the said application, and that the Chancellor affix the seal of the 
University to the said instruments. 

The "Academy of the Town of Schenectady " subsequently 
became Union College. Thus Union and Hamilton were 
created at the same instant by the same sovereign act. 

The Hamilton Oneida application upon which this action 
was taken was dated November 12, 1792. The charter bears 
the signature of George Clinton as Chancellor. It was one 
of the early acts of the regents of the University of the State 
of New York, an institution then recently organized under 
the statute of 1784, revised and perfected in 1787 upon the 
report of a committee drafted by Alexander Hamilton. The 
first Board of Trustees appointed by the charter consisted of : 

Alexander Hamilton, John Lansing, Egbert Benson, Dan Bradley, Eli 
Bristol, Erastus Clark, James Dean, Moses Foot, Thomas R. Gold, Sewal 
Hopkins, Michael Myers, Jonas Piatt, Jedediah Sanger, John Sergeant, 
Timothy Tuttle, and Samuel Wells. 

For the true origin of the institution we must go still 
farther back to the school of Eleazar Wheelock at Lebanon, 



HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 



Connecticut, where came in 1761 as a student, at the age of 
nineteen, Samuel Kirkland, son of the Reverend Daniel Kirk- 
land, of Norwich, Connecticut. The school was estabUshed 
primarily for the education of Indians, and out of it a few 
years later in 1769 grew Dartmouth College. Here the boy 
became imbued with the spirit and began to acquire the learn- 
ing, necessary to qualify him for his extraordinary career of 
usefulness and power as a missionary to the Iroquois. 

After a century and a half of fighting Indians with all the 
hatred and revenge which follow fire and the sword, outrages 
and reprisals, the British colonies had become established and 
strong in their capacity for defense. The long struggle 
against France and her Indian allies for the control of the 
continent had drawn to a close with the victories of Wolfe at 
Quebec and Amherst at Montreal, and a new light seemed to 
break upon the consciences of the good people of Great 
Britain and her colonies. The churches that listened every 
Sunday to the teachings of the Apostles awoke to a sense of 
concern for the souls of the simple savages whose lands they 
were taking away and whose habits contact with the new civil- 
ization was corrupting. Something of the same missionary 
spirit arose in Protestant Britain and New England that in 
the Roman Catholic church had inspired the devotion and 
sacrifice of the Jesuit missionaries to the Indians of the North- 
west, and had raised the names of La Caron and Breboeuf 
and Marquette above the obscuring mists of doctrinal dissen- 
sion, above all distinctions of sect and creed, as illustrious 
and revered examples of Christian service. William Legge, 
second Earl of Dartmouth, became trustee of a fund col- 
lected in England for the support of the school for Indians 
at Lebanon. The Scotch Society for Propagating Christian 
Knowledge turned their attention and their money towards 
the cultivation of the newly-discovered field, sent out mis- 
sionaries and established other schools for the spread of the 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 7 

gospel. The character and spirit of the Lebanon school are 
exhibited in the Memorial sent by Mr. Wheelock to Sir Wil- 
liam Johnson, superintendent of Indian Affairs in North 
America, and other commissioners assembled at Fort Stan- 
wix for a conference with the Indians, in October, 1768. The 
Memorial says : 

The Memorial of Eleazar Wheelock of Lebanon in the Colony of Con- 
necticut, Founder and Director of the Indian Charity School in said Colony, 
humbly showeth : 

" That said school was founded with a single view to promote the 
knowledge of the only true God, and our common salvation especially 
among the savages of this land ; thereby to deliver them from their present 
miseries, make them good members of society, loyal subjects to our rightful 
Sovereign, and especially cordial subjects to the King of Zion. And the 
plan has since been well approved, and the school generously endowed by 
the liberalities of his present Majesty King George the Third, and by 
many Noblemen and Gentlemen in Europe, as well as by many charitably 
disposed people in America — and much labor and cost have been already 
expended to fit and qualify a number both English and Indians for Mis- 
sionaries and School Masters among their several tribes who are now or 
will soon be ready to enter upon their respective services, if suitable doors 
should be opened for their improvement therein. Some attempts have also 
been already made among the Oneidas, and not without some encouraging 
prospect that their lives and manners may be soon formed to rules of 
decency, civility and religion." 

Into this work the young Kirkland entered with unsurpassed 
energy land enthusiasm. The first reference to him which I 
find is in a letter from Sir William Johnson to Mr. Wheelock, 
dated November 17, 1761, in which the writer says: 

Kirkland's intention of learning ye Mohawk language I much approve 
of as after acquiring it he could, when qualified, be of vast service to them 
as a clergyman, which they much want and are very desirous of having. 

In the autumn of 1762 Kirkland entered the sophomore 
class of Princeton, where he received his degree in course at 
the Commencement of 1765. So eager, however, was he to 
enter upon his adventurous work that he did not remain for 
the college commencement, but before the close of the year 
he withdrew and engaged in an expedition to the country of 



8 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

the Senecas. Mr. Wheelock said of this expedition, in a 
letter to the Countess of Huntingdon, on May i6, 1765: 

A young English gentleman, Samuel Kirkland, I sent last fall to winter 
with the numerous and savage tribe of the Senecas in order to learn their 
language and fit him for a mission among them ; where no missionary has 
hitlierto dared to venture. This bold adventure of his, which, considered 
in all the circumstances of it, is the most extraordinary of the kind I have 
ever known, has been attended with abundant evidence of a divine blessing. 

On April 29, 1765, Mr. Wheelock sent through Sir William 
Johnson an address to the sachems and chiefs of the Iroquois 
tribes, in which he said : 

I thank you for the kindness which some of you have shown to my dear 
Mr. Kirkland, whom I sent into your country last fall. His heart is bent 
to do good to the Indians. He denies himself all the pleasure and honors 
which he might have here among his friends, only to do you good. I 
hope you will continue your kindness to him, and treat him as my child. 
I hope God will make him an instrument of great good to the Indians. 

" This gentleman," say McClure and Parish, speaking of 
Kirkland, in their memoirs of Wheelock, 

was, in various respects, peculiarly qualified for the arduous task. He 
possessed uncommon constitutional strength and vivacity, a mind fearless 
in danger, a great fund of benevolence, and a heart devoted to the cause 
of the Redeemer, and zealous for the conversion of the heathen. He 
traveled among those barbarians unattended, boldly persevered in the good 
work, and endured trials and encountered dangers which would have appalled 
a common mind with terror and dismay. Although famine spread its 
horrors around him, and his life was often in danger from some who 
watched an opportunity to kill him, yet he continued with them more than 
eighteen months, taught them from the word of life, and acquired a compe- 
tent knowledge of their language. 

In May, 1766, Mr. Kirkland returned from the country of 
the Senecas and was ordained at Lebanon, and in July he 
returned to the country of the Iroquois under a commission 
from the Society in Scotland. The commission ran in these 
words : 

Be it known to all people by these presents, that the Board of Corre- 
spondents, in the Colony of Connecticut, New England, appointed and 
comm.issioned by the Honorable Society in Scotland for Propagating 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 9 

Christian Knowledge. ... Do authorize, ordain, and appoint the Reverend 
Samuel Kirkland a missionary among the heathen and ignorant people in 
North America . . . and we do invest the said Reverend Samuel Kirkland 
with all the powers, immunities, and privileges belonging to a missionary, 
employed and commissioned by the Corresponding Commissioners of the 
Honorable Society in Scotland for propagating Christian knowledge ; and as 
the said Reverend Samuel Kirkland goes forth under the protection of 
their royal charter, it is desired and expected none will presume to molest 
or disquiet him in the prosecution of his office, but afford him all needful 
encouragement and assistance therein. 

Signed and sealed by order and in the name of the Board of Corre- 
spondents, at Lebanon, the nineteenth day of June, a. d. 1766. 

Eleazar Wheelock, Secretary. 

At this time he took up his residence in the more central 
position of the Oneidas, where he was to pass his life and do 
his work for more than forty years. Abundant evidence has 
been preserved of the noble and unselfish spirit in which he 
worked, of his tireless energy, the fortitude with which he 
endured hardship and suffering, the courage which no pov- 
erty or discouragement could daunt, the swift sympathy 
through which he found his way to the affections of his 
untutored people, and the commanding influence over them 
which he acquired. In 1769 a clergyman in Scotland sent 
him thirty pounds through a New York correspondent, say- 
ing that he had " from good authority a most savory account 
of the uncommon labor of love and hardships in his Master's 
service of the Indian Missionary, Mr. Samuel Kirkland; " and 
Kirkland said in his acknowledgment of this : 

This will be not only the first thirty pounds, but the first thirty shillings, 
I ever had, that I might in any sense call my own, except a few dollars 
given me last spring by the liberality of some friends in Boston, to procure 
books. I have never had any salary since I embarked in this arduous but 
glorious cause, nor ever asked for one. I have the testimony of my con- 
science, with four years' experience (notwithstanding the reproach and 
censure I am obliged to receive from the men of the world), that I was 
not induced to enter this design of Christianizing the heathen from pecuniary 
motives or worldly views. Dr. Wheelock has supplied me from time to 
time, as Providence handed in to him. 



10 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

And at about the same time the Board in Scotland resolved: 

The Board, having taken into consideration the eminent services and 
painful labors of the Reverend Mr. Samuel Kirkland, one of the mission- 
aries employed by Dr. Wheelock among the Indians, and the difficulties 
he has undergone in the prosecution of that employment, are of opinion 
that the sum of one hundred pounds sterling be allowed him, to provide 
himself with necessaries, before he engages in further services. 

It is probable that during all this period Kirkland had in 
mind as a useful agency for civilizing the Indians the estab- 
lishment of a school, not only because of the impression 
derived from the Lebanon School and from Mr. Wheelock's 
example, but from the fact that during their intimate acquaint- 
ance Mr. Wheelock himself had entertained the idea of remov- 
ing his own school to the country of the Iroquois. A letter 
is preserved from Wheelock to General Amherst, written 
April 2, 1763, in which he proposes that a grant of land be 
made — 

on the West side of Susquehanna River or in some other place more 
convenient, in the heart of the Indian country, in favor of this school 
. . . and that the school be an Academy for all parts of useful learning; 
part of it to be a college for the education of missionaries, interpreters, 
school masters, etc., and part of it a school to teach reading, writing, etc. 

Indeed it appears that the establishment of Dartmouth Col- 
lege on the Mohawk instead of at Hanover was at one time 
in contemplation, for at the Indian Congress at Fort Stanwix, 
in October, 1768, the Reverend Jacob Johnson, one of the 
missionaries to the Indians, came in behalf of Dr. Wheelock 
to ask the favor of Sir William Johnson and his associates 
for a proposal to the Indians, which ran in this way : 

Know Ye That Whereas The Reverend Dr. Eleazar Wheelock of 
Lebanon in the Colony of Connecticut in New England, Minister of 
Jesus Christ is about to set up a college or Great School for the benefit 
of the Indians which generous and good design is favored by your Royal 
Father the King of Great Britain The Earl of Dartmouth together with 
many wise as well as great and good men, and a place is now searching out 
whereon to set up said College and many great offers made in lands and 
monies wherewith to endow said College in several of the neighboring 
English Governments but no place resolved upon as yet to set up said 
College. 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS H 

These are therefore to ask of you Fathers and Brethren if it be your 
minds and what you would choose to appropriate and devote a certain tract 
of your land or country for this great and good purpose on or near the 
Mohawk River or wherever you in your wisdom may think most convenient 
of such extent and worth as may be sufficient with what monies and other 
benefactions and charities may be given to endow said College that it may 
be of a most public and extensive use and benefit to the several nations of 
Indians. 

The outbreak of the Revolution carried Kirkland's activi- 
ties into a wider field, introduced a new element into his life, 
and gave broader scope to his vision, for his knowledge of 
the Indians and his influence over them enabled him to render 
most signal service in preventing Indian hostilities, and espe- 
cially in maintaining the friendly attitude of the Oneidas 
towards the colonists so that the united action of the League 
of the Iroquois in the British interest was impossible. He 
was as patriotic as he was pious. He served his country as 
zealously and effectively as he had served his religion. He 
became the agent of the colonies among the Indians of all the 
Six Nations, and for years journeyed up and down through 
the country attending their councils and pleading the colonial 
cause. He was chaplain to the garrison at Fort Schuyler -^ 
under a commission from the Continental Congress. He was 
brigade chaplain of General Sullivan in the campaign of 1779. 
He became a trusted adviser of the government regarding 
Indian affairs. He was thrown into intimate relations of 
friendship and confidence with Washington and Hamilton 
and Schuyler and Pickering and Knox. After the defeat of 
St. Clair, when the Iroquois were in danger of making com- 
mon cause with the western Indians in a bloody war against 
the new government of the United States, it was Kirkland 
who, with infinite pains and difficulty, induced a great party 
of the chiefs and sachems of the Six Nations to go with him 
to the seat of government at Philadelphia, where a good under- 
standing was reached and their part in the war prevented. 
In the meantime he had returned to his missionary duties 
among the Oneidas and had prepared and sent to Timothy 



12 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

Pickering and to the Board of Commissioners in Boston, " a 
plan of education for the Indians, particularly of the Five 
Nations." This plan contemplated, in addition to smaller 
schools, the establishment of an academy in the vicinity of 
Oneida at which English youth were to be admitted, and a 
certain number of Indian youth, selected from the different 
nations of the confederacy, and to be 

instructed in tlie principles of human nature, in the history of civil society, 
so as to be able to discern the diflference between a state of nature and a 
state of civilization, and know what it is that makes one nation diflfer 
from another in wealth, power, and happiness, and in the principles of 
natural religion, the moral precepts, and the more plain and express 
doctrines of Christianity. 

Timothy Pickering was one of the little group of men 
whom Washington trusted most. He was then Postmaster- 
General, was soon to become Secretary of War, and after- 
wards Secretary of State; and he played a great part in the 
Federal administrations which, under Washington and John 
Adams, set in motion the machinery of the new government 
under the Constitution. A long document from him con- 
taining comments upon Kirkland's plan of education, approv- 
ing its general principles, suggesting alterations and improve- 
ments, gives evidence of the interest*he felt in the subject. 
In 1792 Kirkland went about the execution of that portion 
of the plan of education which related to the establishment 
of an academy. He visited New York, conferred with the 
governor of the state and the regents, and he visited Phila- 
delphia, where he conferred with Washington, Pickering, and 
Hamilton. Washington, it is said, expressed a warm interest 
in the institution, and Hamilton consented to become one of 
the trustees and to afford all the aid in his power. President 
Fisher, in his semi-centennial address fifty years ago, states 
the fact that from Hamilton Mr. Kirkland obtained the gift 
of a lot of land, which realized what in those times was a 
handsome sum. When the charter had been granted Kirk- 
land proceeded to donate a site to the new institution on the 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 13 

hillside overlooking the valleys of the Oriskany and the 
Mohawk — a part of the tract which four years before had 
been conveyed to him by the conjoint action of the Indians 
and the state in recognition of his services to both. The 
terms of the conveyance indicate a liberal spirit and an appre- 
ciation of the polite side of life which it is pleasant to find 
surviving after so long experience amid barbarism and hard- 
ship. He was founding an institution in a wilderness, sur- 
rounded by savages. The nearest approach to civilization was 
to be found in the rude life of the frontiersmen. Yet he speci- 
fied in his gift of land that a part was to be used for an orna- 
mental garden. The preamble of the deed has often been 
quoted, but cannot be quoted too often. It says : 

A serious consideration of the importance of education and an early 
improvement and cultivation of the human mind, together with the situ- 
ation of the frontier settlement of this part of the state, though extensive 
and flourishing, yet destitute of any well regulated seminary of learning, 
has induced and determined me to contribute of the ability wherewith my 
Heavenly Benefactor hath blessed me, towards laying the foundation and 
support of a school or academy in the town of Whitestown, and county of 
Herkimer, contiguous to the Oneida nation of Indians, for the mutual 
benefit of the young and flourishing settlements in said county, and the 
various tribes of confederate Indians; earnestly wishing the institution may 
grow and flourish, that the advantages of it may be extensive and lasting, 
and that, under the smiles of the God of wisdom and goodness, it may 
prove an eminent means of diffusing useful knowledge, enlarging the 
bounds , of human happiness, aiding the reign of virtue, and the kingdom 
of the blessed Redeemer. 

To this foundation were added contributions made from 
their slender means by many of the inhabitants of the infant 
settlements of central New York. In the following year, 
1794, the academy building was erected and soon after teach- 
ing was commenced. The corner stone of the building was 
laid with great ceremony by the Baron Frederick William 
von Steuben, Washington's inspector-general, the drill master 
of the Revolution, the old staff officer of Frederick the Great, 
whose military experience and loyal constancy through the 
privations of Valley Forge turned the undisciplined colonial 
levies into an army capable of Monmouth and Yorktown. 



14 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

Among the forests that were famihar with the silent passage 
of the savage Indian, along the slopes that looked down upon 
the bloody battlefield of Oriskany, the war-worn soldier was 
accompanied to this place where we now stand by a gay and 
joyous cavalcade in which were two of the daughters of Mr. 
Kirkland and their escorts, and in which the Clinton Light 
Horse, Captain George W. Kirkland commanding, was the 
guard of honor. Cheerful hope and strong faith and lofty 
purpose accompanied, with propitious omens, the first physical 
step in the undertaking we now celebrate and promote, after 
the lapse of a hundred and eighteen years. 

It is plain that the long and strenuous labors of Kirkland 
in the revolutionary struggle, his companionship with the 
great men who were freeing and founding the nation, his 
agency in establishing and maintaining due political relations 
between the still powerful Indian tribes and the new United 
States, had changed and developed the view of the young 
missionary and brought a new element into the scope of his 
purpose. He was no longer content to convert pagan savages 
into Christian savages, but was bent upon establishing an 
agency of civilization which should do its share towards 
solving the race question of his time and make peace through 
knowledge and understanding. To the savage prejudice and 
error and racial hatred against which he and his great com- 
panions and leaders had been struggling, he would oppose, 
in the words of the plan of education, " instruction in the 
principles of human nature, in the history of civil society, 
so as to be able to discern the difference between a state of 
nature and a state of civilization, and know what it is that 
makes one nation differ from another in wealth, power, and 
happiness." He would inculcate not the doctrinal theology 
of any school or creed, but " principles of natural religion, 
the moral precepts, and the more plain and express doctrines 
of Christianity." It was this public service of statesmanship 
which brought to his project the approval of Washington and 
the cooperation of Hamilton and Pickering and Steuben. 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 15 

So there entered into the birth of the new institution both 
the spirit of rehgion in its broadest sense and the spirit of 
patriotism in its highest development. It was to promote 
Christian civiHzation and to promote instructed and wise 
citizenship. It was not merely that boys might learn grammar 
and algebra to help them to get on in life, but that among all 
the crude and unorganized elements of that transition period 
should arise an influence powerful to expand men's minds 
and form men's characters for a nobler country and a better 
world. The spirit of the new institution was born of struggle 
and arduous labor and sacrifice, and noble scorn of ease and 
luxury, and little care for wealth and display, and thirst for 
knowledge, and loyalty to truth, and love for man, and faith 
in God. When we now, in our generation, do our share 
towards carrying on the college we are executing the lofty 
purposes of great and noble men, long since passed away, 
and entering into a companionship with them. 

The life of the institution has been a life of struggle, 
happy, perhaps, for the preservation of its virtues. It was 
several years before the funds sufficed to finish the interior 
of the building of which Steuben laid the corner stone ; but 
before the close of the eighteenth century it had become a 
flourishing institution. It was visited by President Timothy 
Dwight in his "Journey to Whitestown " in 1799. He says 
of it: 

This Seminary is already of considerable importance ; and contains fifty- 
two students, of both sexes, under the care of two instructors. The 
scheme of education, professedly pursued in it, includes the English, Latin, 
and Greek languages, and most of the liberal arts and sciences. An 
Academic building is erected for it, eighty-eight feet long, and forty-six 
feet wide, of three stories, on a noble, healthy eminence, commanding a 
rich and extensive prospect. It is, however, but partially finished. 

In his account of this same journey President Dwight 
describes Utica as " a pretty village containing fifty houses," 
and he says, " in 1794 there were but two, and in 1795 but 
six." It was Dr. Dwight's intention to extend his journey 



16 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

to the western parts of the state, and he proceeded as far as 
a point which he describes as " Laird's, at the entrance of the 
Oneida woods." This is the hamlet on the present state 
highway about two miles and a half north of the college. 
There he became daunted by the reported difficulties of 
penetrating the wilderness any farther and turned back. It 
seems rather a pity that the old academy building which 
was built in the wilderness with so much pains should not 
have been preserved for its associations, but it was torn down 
in 1830, although the house built by Mr. Kirkland at the foot 
of the hill for his home, in 1795, and long known as the 
Harding house, still remains. In those early days there was 
but little money in the neighborhood and the academy had but 
a small part of that. The report to the regents for the year 
1804 states the property of the academy to have been: 

Academy lot and house $3,500 

Other real estate 900 

Personal estate 240 

Library and apparatus 462 

Annual Income 

From the funds 48 

From tuition 494 

Teachers' salaries per annum [there were two of them] 604 

Average price of board per annum 65 

Price of tuition per annum 12 

And upon this basis sixty- four students were being instructed 
in — 

Reading and Writing. 

English Grammar, Cyphering, etc. 

Mathematics, Bookkeeping, etc. 

Dead Languages. 

Logic, Rhetoric, Composition, etc. 

Moral Philosophy, etc. 

The French Language, and Natural Philosophy. 

When we consider those days of poverty we should remem- 
ber that the men who contributed the funds and the labor, 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 17 

who cut and squared the timbers and split the shingles and 
raised the frame for the new academy, were themselves liv- 
ing in log houses and destitute of what would now be regarded 
as almost the necessities of life; that the money which paid 
the sixty-five dollars per annum for board and the twelve 
dollars per annum for tuition was hardly earned on partly 
cleared farms and was saved by self-denial and sacrifice. 
Life was hard and stern. For a long time after the college 
charter the students arose in the morning at half past five 
o'clock, summer and winter, attended prayers in the chapel 
at six, and recitations until seven, by the light of tallow 
candles. They attended church and chapel and recitation 
in rooms without fires, and even the president sometimes 
preached in overcoat and mittens. 

Great progress was made from this point to the opulence 
which justified and secured the college charter of 1812. In 
1814, the regents of the University reported, of the three 
colleges which then existed in the state : 

From Columbia, Union, and Hamilton Colleges, special representations 
of their respective conditions have been made to the Legislature, by which 
the degree of increasing prosperity in each will be seen, and how far the 
very great benefits they are calculated to afford to the community, recom- 
mend them to the unremitted support of Government. 

And thereupon the legislature of the state enacted a law 
which affords an interesting illustration of the changing 
standards of public sentiment and public policy. It was 
Chapter 120 of the Lavv's of 18 14, entitled "An act institut- 
ing a Lottery for the promotion of Literature and for other 
purposes," passed April 13, 1814. The act recites: 

Whereas well regulated seminaries of learning are of immense impor- 
tance to every country, and tend especially, by the diffusion of science 
and the promotion of morals, to defend and perpetuate the liberties of a 
free state ; Therefore, 

Be it enacted by the people of the State of New York, represented in 
Senate and Assembly, That there shall be raised by lottery, in successive 
classes, a sum equal in amount to the several appropriations made by this 
act, together with the simple interest accruing thereon, till the same shall 
be raised and paid by the managers appointed to superintend the same. 

2 



18 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

The act then proceeds to make appropriations of one hun- 
dred and seventy thousand dollars out of the avails of the 
lottery to Union College, forty thousand dollars to Hamilton 
College, to grant the land known as the Botanic Garden in 
New^ York to Columbia College, and to authorize the pay- 
ment of four thousand dollars to discharge the debt of the 
Asbury African church in the city of New York. In the 
original edition of the Session laws there is a note under this 
statute which says : 

No bill before the Legislature excited greater interest and attention 
than this act. Much credit is due to the unwearied exertions of the able 
and eloquent president of Union College, in procuring its passage. 

And there is an appendix to the volume by which it appears 
that the state, under an act of June 19, 181 2, had already 
given to Hamilton College the sum of fifty thousand dollars, 
and that the trustees of the late Hamilton Oneida Academy 
and other individuals had subscribed fifty thousand dollars 
for the benefit of the college. 

The prosperity of the institution continued until in 1823 a 
boyish prank in which a cannon was exploded in Old South 
College led to a controversy that left the college almost with- 
out students; and for several years it seemed on the verge of 
extinction. It soon recovered, but before the recovery was 
complete an active dispute arose upon a proposition to remove 
the institution to Utica, and the defeat of that proposal led 
to the resignation of President Sereno Dwight. We should be 
grateful that the proposal was defeated, for it would hardly 
have been the same institution if it had been moved, and 
now, with the railroad and the trolley line and the macadam 
roads and the automobile, the college is practically a Utica 
institution. It is nearer to Utica now than New Hartford or 
Whitesboro was then. The great citizens whose memory 
Utica cherishes as a part of her civic traditions deemed it a 
part of their duty as citizens to maintain and promote the 
interests of the institution which was exercising so beneficent 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 19 

an influence throughout the region of which Utica is the 
center. The first president of the Board of Trustees of the 
college for many years was General Joseph Kirkland, mayor 
of Utica. My own memory recalls, with a distinctness 
peculiar to the vivid impressions of early youth, the appear- 
ance of Horatio Seymour and Joshua Spencer and Hiram 
Denio and Edmund A. Wetmore and Erastus Clark and 
S. Newton Dexter and William J. Bacon and Thomas W. 
Seward and Publius V. Rogers as they appeared upon the 
commencement stage or attended meetings of the trustees. 
They deemed this to be their college — the college of their 
home, and injurious distance did not stop the way of their 
devotion to her interests. That noble and beautiful city is 
nobler and more beautiful because step by step with the mate- 
rial growth of its entire life have gone the influences of the 
institution, educating the sons and mingling with the social 
life of the city. There are worthy successors now to Kirkland 
and Seymour and Spencer and Denio, and, since the city and 
the college are drawn closer together in ease of access, they 
should draw together in sympathy and mutual benefit. 

Since the settlement of that vital controversy the college 
has proceeded with little adventure upon its simple and pro- 
gressive course. It has gradually enlarged its Faculty and its 
facilities for instruction; it has made its standards higher 
and its work more thorough; and it has kept pace with the 
requirements of the time, in the comfort and convenience 
and beauty of the many commodious and stately buildings, 
which, especially under the force and enthusiasm of President 
Stryker, have succeeded the rude old wooden academy on 
the edge of the Oneida woods. 

It is an interesting fact that although the Corporation of 
Harvard College had for many years contributed to the 
support of Kirkland's mission, and his son. John Thornton 
Kirkland, had become president of Harvard, and although 
Dartmouth and Hamilton were so closely associated in their 
source and origin, and although Kirkland was a graduate of 



20 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

Princeton, nevertheless the force of the old Connecticut 
associations was so strong that for more than seventy years 
every principal and teacher in the academy and every presi- 
dent of the college, with one exception, was a graduate of 
Yale. The one exception was Dr. Penney, who held the 
office of president for a very brief time, from 1835 to 1839. 
The last of the series of Yale graduates was the eloquent 
Samuel Ware Fisher, who retired from the office in 1866. 
After him came that scholarly and delightful gentleman, 
Samuel Oilman Brown, a graduate of Dartmouth; after him, 
a graduate of Amherst, the gentle and pious Henry Darling. 
Then we came to our own in the selection of Melancthon 
Woolsey Stryker, of the Class of 1872. He needs no monu- 
ment yet, but, when he does, circumspice. 

No mortal now can inspire me with half the reverence and 
admiration that I felt for the teachers of Hamilton jfifty years 
ago. There are no better men than they. There never can 
be. But I am bound to say that Hamilton is a better college 
than it was then. Her work is better done and her students 
are better educated. It is not my purpose in this paper to 
recount the details of the college life and growth or to enu- 
merate and estimate the men who have been a part of that 
life. For the men of the first half -century that service was 
well done by the historical discourse of fifty years ago, and 
for them all the same thing is done under the admirable prac- 
tice by which each year there is read an annalist letter from 
the class fifty years out, a practice which has endured for half 
a century and ought never to be abandoned. 

I wish, however, to say something about the college that 
can be illustrated by reference to a group of teachers, who 
were here fifty years ago — my own father, Oren Root, and 
his son, Oren Root, who, in succession, filled the chair of 
mathematics in the college for fifty-eight years; Edward 
North, professor of Greek for forty-eight years; Charles 
Avery, for twenty-five years professor of chemistry; Chris- 
tian Henry Frederick Peters, the astronomer for thirty-two 



1912] CENTENARY ADDRESS 21 

years in the Litchfield Observatory; and Anson Judd Upson, 
for twenty-one years professor of rhetoric. Their students 
doubtless soon forgot the most of what they learned from 
book and lecture ; but their students never could escape the 
deep and lasting impressions upon their characters, their 
tastes, and their intellectual methods. These professors were 
poor as the world goes, but they had a wealth that money 
cannot create. They loved their subjects and were happy 
in their work. They rejoiced in the exercise of their powers. 
They were content with simple pleasures. They filled the 
atmosphere about them with an enthusiasm for learning and 
literature. They sought for truth as one who strives in a 
game. They never talked or thought about money or invest- 
ments or profits. They took little heed of all those things 
for which men are striving and wearing out their lives in 
the market places of a materialistic clviHzation. 

For a boy to live with such men, to be close to them during 
four of the most impressionable years of youth, to observe 
and become accustomed to their simple and sincere lives, with- 
out money, made happy by the pleasures of the intellect and 
taste, to get their standards and become impressed by their 
estimates of the values of life, and to learn enough out of 
books in the meantime to understand it all — that is an educa- 
tion beyond price. 

And this is the true history of Hamilton. Before the com- 
ing of the group that I have named, their predecessors running 
back to the wilderness days did the same. Their successors 
are now doing the same. It is something that the great uni- 
versity cannot do. With all that the great university gains, 
it continually loses something with its growth, and this is 
what it loses — the personal touch and the development of 
character. It is something that only the small college can do, 
and only the small college with the right spirit. Hamilton 
does it because the spirit of the founding in the wilderness 
persists. She has held to the old faith. She has never sought 
to be a vocational institution. She does not teach men to be 



22 HAMILTON COLLEGE [1912 

lawyers or doctors or clergymen or bankers or farmers. She 
is an educational institution. She seeks to develop, to train, 
to form, to educate, youths to be men competent to fit them- 
selves for any vocation. She has been kept true by her tradi- 
tions, by the train of simple farmer boys who have come 
plodding over the hills to her examinations, by the great pro- 
portion of her students who come not because they are sent 
or because it is the correct thing to do, but because they are 
eager to make their way in the world. The college has grown, 
the buildings are more numerous and expensive, the physical 
appliances are more adequate, the endowment is more ample. 
The pathetic little schedule of property of a century ago has 
long since passed the million mark. But all these things are 
of minor importance, for what would it profit the college to 
gain them and lose its own soul? The richest possessions of 
the institution are the multitude of lives, past and present, 
that would never have been educated if the college had not 
been here ; the intelligences that would not have been enlarged 
by learning and literature ; the spirits that would not have 
been quickened but for her; the unrecorded influences for 
the betterment of a thousand communities to which her 
graduates have gone ; the part she has played in the develop- 
ment of our country along lines of Christian civilization. The 
great thing to be said, as we review the century, is that the 
college always has been, in its essential character, the same 
institution which drew its life, in the wilderness, from the 
struggles and sacrifices of Kirkland — always inspired by the 
same spirit, faithful to the same cause, and working out the 
same beneficent purpose. 



DOCUMENTS 

ILLUSTRATING THE HISTORY 

OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 

1766-1862 



Kirkland's Appointment as Missionary to the Indians 

Be it known to all People by these Presents, that the Board 
of Correspondents, in the Colony of Connecticut, New Eng- 
land, appointed and commissioned by the Honourable Society 
in Scotland for propagating Christian Knowledge (by their 
Commission given under the common Seal of the aforesaid 
Society, Signed by James Smoller Prseses of the Committee 
of Directors, and Alexander Stevenson Clerk of the Society, 
at Edinburgh the 13th of March A. D. 1764: which Society 
was legally incorporated by Royal Charter, in the Eighth Year 
of Queen Anne A. D. 1709: and afterwards enlarged and ex- 
tended to the Colonies and Plantations in America, Anno 
quarto Georgii Primi.) 

Do authorize, ordain, and appoint the Reverend Samuel 
Kirtland a Missionary among the Heathen and ignorant 
People in North America and direct him, as he hath Ability 
and opportunity, to instruct, teach, and preach the Gospel, to 
the Indian Tribes and others, as he shall find Occasion, where- 
ever the Providence of God shall call him, and we do invest 
the said Rev^ Samuell Kirtland, with all the Powers, Immuni- 
ties and Privileges belonging to a Missionary, imployed and 
commissioned by the Corresponding Commissioners of the 
Honourable Society in Scotland for propagating Christian 
Knowledge, and as the said Rev^ Samuel Kirtland goes forth 
under the Protection of their Royal Charter, it is desired and 
expected none will presume to molest or disquiet him in the 
Prosecution of his Office, but afford him all needful Encourage- 
ment and Assistance therein. 

Signed, Sealed by Order, and in the Name of the Board of 
Correspondents, at Lebanon, ye 19 Day of June, A. D. 1766. 

Eleazer Wheelock, Secretary. 
[25] 



26 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1789 

From Samuel Kirkland's Journal, Jan. 14, 1789 

The Honbl Board has been made acquainted by my Journal, 
transmitted to them in the month of August last, of several 
applications made to me by the Chiefs on Buffaloe Creek and 
Genesee — both Senekas and Onondagos, also some Oneidas 
— to make provision for the education of some of their youth. 
They have accordingly desired me to take the care of several 
of their promising youth, and adopt them into my family, that 
they shall henceforward be considered (in the Indian stile) 
as the minister's sons. And upon my accepting the charge 
or trust, the Parents respectively in a formal manner enjoined 
upon them to follow my advice and attend to my instruction. 
Some of these adopted sons have been my companions the 
summer and autumn past, in travelling several hundred miles 
through their country. These they would wish to be taught 
the English language — to read and write the same. The 
other kind of schooling they would have to be in their own 
language and in their respective villages. 

The education of the first class they wish to be such as 
shall fit them for politicians and schoolmasters, to introduce 
the manners and customs of the white people among them, 
which the famous Captain Brant has effected in a very con- 
siderable degree among the Mohawks. 

I have not yet given any encouragement of having a school 
set up in the Senekas Country the present year, as the expense 
would be too great, till provision can be furnished at a less 
distance than Mohawk River. 

The vicinity of Oneida is the best place that I know of for 
the instruction of those who are designed for an English 
education. A settlement of white people has been making 
there for two years past, and will soon furnish provision at a 
moderate price. They are also a sober, religious, and indus- 
trious people. 

Particular attention should be paid to the character of the 
persons who might be employed in the Indian Country, either 



17911 OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 27 



as missionaries or school masters. They ought to be of good 
moral character, of generous principles, lovers of universal 
peace, free from party spirit and bigotry, not contracted but 
catholic in their sentiments. They must treat all Indians in- 
discriminately with kindness. 

A Plan of Education for the Indians, Particularly of 
THE Five Nations 

First. Let a school be erected in the vicinity of Oneida, 
contiguous to some English settlement. 

Secondly. Let there be admitted into this school tzvo Indian 
lads of the most promising parts, best habits, and principal 
families from the Seneka Nation, one of the same description 
from the Onondaga, Cayoga, and Tuscarora; and two from 
the Oneida Nation. 

Thirdly. Let them be instructed pretty much in the follow- 
ing method: first, in reading and writing the English and 
Indian languages, and in the rudiments of Arithmetic. After 
having acquired a sufficient knowledge of these, they may be 
instructed into the principles of human nature, and the history 
of civil society, so far as is necessary to give them a knowledge 
of the means which conduce to the wealth, power, and happi- 
ness of Nations, such as laws, government, agriculture, indus- 
try, etc. — that they may be able clearly to discern the differ- 
ence between a state of nature and a state of civilization, and 
may know what it is that makes one nation differ from another. 
Lastly, let them be taught the principles of natural and the 
doctrines of revealed religion. Moral precepts and the more 
plain and express doctrines of Christianity should be con- 
stantly inculcated, as the minds of the youth are able to re- 
ceive them. 

Fourthly, besides the above number, it is proposed, in order 
that the school may become more immediately useful, to select 
two young men from among the Oneidas, and two from each 
village in their neighbourhood, who have already acquired 



28 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1791 

considerable knowledge of the English language and manners, 
and place them in the school for six or eight months only, 
which will so complete them in reading and writing, as to 
enable them to keep common schools in their respective 
villages, which schools should be supported by the Indians 
themselves. To facilitate the acquisition of the English lan- 
guage by the Indians, it will be necessary to admit into the 
school a number of English youth, who shall bear the charges 
of their own education. 

Fifthly. Those who are members of the school may acquire 
some knowledge of husbandry by being employed for a cer- 
tain portion of time in the cultivation of a small tract of land, 
near the school, to be appropriated for that purpose ; but for 
the more general and speedy introduction of agriculture among 
the Indians it will be necessary that each village have a good 
farmer residing in it for a term of time ; the expense of which 
may be defrayed by the Indians after the first year. 

Sixthly. When the practice of husbandry shall have 
obtained considerably among them, let a work-house be estab- 
lished in one of their principal villages, in which the females, 
after having before learned reading and writing, may be 
taught spinning and weaving, together with domestic economy. 

The expense of this may likewise be defrayed by the Indians 
after the first or second year. 

The reason why it is necessary to have the school contiguous 
to the English on the one part is that the Indians cannot learn 
the language and manners of the English, but by hearing their 
language spoken and observing their manners. This has been 
sufficiently proved by experience. After much pains, there 
are only four scholars out of thirty in the school among the 
Oneidas, who have acquired any considerable degree of knowl- 
edge in the English language, and this they could not have 
obtained had not their instructor been well acquainted with 
both languages, for it scarce need be remarked that they have 
neither grammar nor dictionary to assist them, as we have 
to assist us in acquiring the knowledge of a language we dc 



1791] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 29 

not hear spoken. The chief reason why it is necessary to have 
the school contiguous to the Indians, on the other part, is, 
that as the habits of savage Hfe are at a very great remove 
from those of a civiHzed, to oblige the Indian youth suddenly 
to break off all the former and adopt the latter, will unavoid- 
ably tend to depress their spirits, and either sink them into a 
torpid indifiference, or beget in them an utter dislike to the 
improvements and manners of a civilized life. Some of the 
more intelligent Indians have observed the same thing to me 
in conversation, which I have had with them upon the subject ; 
that some of their manners must, for a time, be indulged and 
even cherished, and be very gradually superseded by those of 
the white people, if we would bring them into our path (as 
they express it) and make them see as we white people see. 
By the school being near the Indians, the parents and friends 
of the youth would have opportunity to visit them frequently, 
or at stated times have the gratification of seeing their improve- 
ments, and would encourage them by their applause. More- 
over, the Senekas, Onondagoes, and Cayogas will not readily 
consent to have their children, at least of principal families, 
go farther from their country tlian the vicinity of Oneida. 

The utility of teaching them to read and write their own 
language is very obvious. From their strong attachment to 
their mother tongue, and the difficulty with which they learn 
ours, neither the present not the next generation will obtain 
much knowledge of the English language. There are now 
more than sixty Oneidas who can write and read in their own 
language with considerable ease and propriety. There are 
two of the Oneidas, either of whom would answer to teach 
the Indian language in the school. 

The little success, which lias followed all past attempts to 
civilize the Indians, may seem to discourage any future efforts 
for that purpose. To me, however, it appears that the failure 
of those attempts is to be ascribed to causes, some of which 
do not exist, and others may be prevented from operating. 
The whole face of things throughout the territory of the Six 



30 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1791 

Nations is of late years greatly changed. Formerly the 
Indians in general, from a strong attachment to their ancient 
usages and customs, held in great contempt the manners and 
arts of an improved state of society ; now, many hold them in 
high esteem, and express a strong desire to have them intro- 
duced. 

Formerly they could subsist by hunting and fishing; now 
it is certain, and many of them believe and say it, that their 
very existence as a people will in a short time depend upon 
their having recourse to agriculture. So sensible are the dis- 
cerning among them of the change in their circumstances, 
that they are excedingly alarmed at their present situation, 
and apparent destiny, and are convinced that a different course 
of life from that of their forefathers must be adopted, or 
their extinction as a nation will be inevitable. 

The deep rooted prejudices against white people, which 
formerly possessed the minds of the Indians, are now in a 
good degree removed. 

Those Indian youth who have been introduced to schools, 
were put there too late, and taken away too soon. In the 
choice of them, little or no regard was paid to genius, dis- 
position, or habits. This has been remarked by the Indians 
themselves. Most of those who received this partial English 
education, were obliged, for the sake of subsistence, to resume 
the savage mode of life afterwards; Capt. Joseph Brant 
excepted. 

Considering these circumstances, and some others that might 
be mentioned, I believe it may be concluded that a fair trial 
has never yet been made for the civilization and improvement 
of the Indians, and that there is still encouragement still to 
pursue the object as yet attainable. For I cannot yet admit 
the idea, which some have advanced, that there is a repugnancy 
in the very frame and constitution of their minds to intellec- 
tual improvements and the arts of civilized life. After more 
than twenty years' observation, I am not able to discover any 
other repugnancy in the Indian mind to civilization, than what 



1791] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 31 

arises from the mere force of an Indian or pagan education. 
That they want capacity cannot be urged, for they discover in 
many things great ingenuity and address ; and some marks of 
original genius are found among them. That they have such 
a viciousness and depravity of disposition as forbids their 
civilization, is not true ; for their ideas of right and wrong in 
many cases, if known, would do them honor. What I have 
seen among them, instead of weakening, confirms to me the 
opinion of most philosophers, that the difference between one 
nation and another is not so much owing to nature as to 
education. I think we have every reason to believe that the 
present inhabitants of the United States owe all their 
superiority over the native savages of the wilderness in point 
of dignity to the cultivation of their minds in morals and in 
the civil and polite arts. 

I cannot but believe that this plan, or some one similar to it, 
may with the aid and countenance of Government be executed. 

That it will be productive of happy consequences, in a civil, 
moral, and political view, will not be doubted. In the view 
of the humane and benevolent mind, it will unquestionably 
be considered as a most desirable object ; and an act of justice 
due to that much injured and neglected part of our species, 
who are equally capable with us, by nature, of social enjoy- 
ments and the more noble improvements of the mind. 

It may be one way in which the United States are to express 
their gratitude to Heaven for raising them to such wealth 
and eminence, and putting them into quiet possession of so 
extensive a part of the territory, once claimed and occupied 
by the Aborigines of America. 

We may be confident that every attempt to diffuse human 
happiness will meet the approbation of Him, who made of 
one blood all nations to dwell upon the face of the earth. 

Sam' Kirkland. 
Oneida, Octor- 4th 1791. 



32 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1791 

Samuel Kirkland to Henry Knox 
Secretary of War in the x^dministration of George Washington. 

Philadelphia 6th Decemr- 1791. 
Sir, 

Agreeably to your request I have the honor to present you 
with a statement of the expences requisite to give efficacy to 
the Plan I have drafted and presented to you for introducing 
Civilization among the five Nations of Indians. For some 
reasons the statement I have made extends no farther than the 
Oneida Nation and its vicinity, together with the Onondagoes, 
who reside in their ancient settlement, called Onondago, and 
at the distance of 18 miles only, from the westernmost Village 
of the Oneidas. 

Let it be observed that the Oneidas, with their Allies viz. 
Tiiscaroras and Stockbridge Indians, are settled in five small 
Villages, and all within what is called the Oneida Reservation; 
viz. Old Oneida, Tuscarora, (alias Kanadesco) Kanonwalo- 
hale, Skawasleagh, and Kanaghsolage. The two last is at 
present fewer in number than the former. Kanonwalohale 
is their Capital, and most central. 

First. For erecting a convenient and decent 
Schoolhouse, either in Kanonwalohale, or its 
vicinity 250 doll^s- 

Two School Masters to be supported for the 
term of two years, by the General Government ; 
The one to be placed at Tuscarora, the other to 
supply both Kanaghsolage and Onondago, to be 
allowed one hundred dollars each annually 200 

A third School-Master will be employed in 
the Principal School at Kanonwalohale or its 
vicinity, and most probably supported by the 
Society in Scotland for propagating Christian 
Knowledge. 

One carpenter and one blacksmith, both of 
which to be good farmers, and each to be sup- 
plied with a set of tools — to be placed at 



1791] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 33 

Kanonwalohale, and to work for the whole 
vicinity as occasion shall require — and each to 
be allowed 60 dolks for the first year — exclu- 
sive of their tools — and forty dolls each for the 
second year 120 

One or both of the above mentioned to have 
families, if such can be found who are sober, 
industrious, ingenius, and of strict integrity. 

One farmer, a single man, to be placed at 
Tuscarora; and one of the same description, or 
with a small family, to reside at Onondago, and 
part of the time at Kanaghsolage ; each to be 
allowed 40 dolKs and for the first year only, as 
there is a sufficient quantity of cleared land in 
each of these Villages to enable them soon to 
provide for themselves 80 

Three yoke of working oxen; two for Kanon- 
walohale and its vicinity; and one for Onondago 
and Kanaghsolage, at 50 dolli"s each 150 

Three draught chains at 2>4 dolls each; two 
log do at 4>^ dolls each i6>^ 

Three plows, called by the farmers hog-plows. 
This kind are found to be preferable to any 
other for rough and rooty ground — 9 dolks 
each 18 

One ox cart — 22dolls ; 100 axes at i doll. ; 
100 hoes at ^3 dolk 188^ 

A Superintendent, whose duty shall be to in- 
spect the whole, visit each Village and tribe at 
least once a month during the spring and 
summer seasons to encourage the industrious, 
and to take notice of their progress, and render 
a particular acct of their conduct and improve- 
ment once or twice in the course of a year to 
some person appointed for that purpose. The 
Superintendent may be allowed 160 or 200 
dollrs per an", according to his fidelity and 
attention to the real interest of the Indians. . . 160 doll. 
3 



34 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1791 

Two or three hundred acres of land should be appropriated 
in each Village for the use and benefit of their respective 
schools. The Master and Scholars, instead of the usual diver- 
sions of boys, should be ordered to exercise themselves one 
or two hours every day in improving and cultivating some 
part of their glebe. The farmer also to contribute something 
towards it that the profits arising from this appropriated 
ground may in time support the School. 

No Trader must be allowed to bring spirituous liquors into 
any part of the Oneida Reservation or Onondago Village on 
any consideration. 

The success of this attempt, next to the aid and counte- 
nance of the general Government (in which the Indians have 
now an almost unbounded confidence since the last treaty) 
will chiefly depend on the character and fidelity of the School 
masters and farmers who shall be employed, and the exclu- 
sion of intoxicating liquors from the Indian settlements. I am 
persuaded on the whole it will be most eligible that a Trader 
be admitted into one of their principal Villages, with dry 
goods, ammunition, etc. to prevent the Indians travelling 
abroad for those necessary articles, where they will be exposed 
to the intoxicating draught. 

The building of a work-house for the education of the 
females may be a subject of future consideration. 

With sentiments of the highest respect and esteem, I have 
the honor to be, Sir, 

Your obedt and humbl Servt 

S. Kirkland. 
Honbl. Henry Knox, Secty. 
in the War Depart^. 

P. S. In addition to the above, I would recommend the 
furnishing the Indians with three harrows and three grind- 
stones, which will be absolutely necessary. 

The reasons which invite to make the first efforts for intro- 
ducing Civilization among the Oneidas and their Allies, are 



1791] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 35 

principally these : Their having been friends to the United 
States in the late war, and suffered much in the common cause ; 
they have already approximated considerably towards Civil- 
ization, which will greatly facilitate the attempt ; lastly, the 
ideas and impressions which the Oneidas embibe of our 
national character will unavoidably have great influence with 
the western parts of the confederacy and even extend to more 
remote Nations. 

N. B. It will be necessary that the farmers and School- 
masters should be permitted to hold the land they may respec- 
tively occupy, by way of lease, for the term of 15 or 20 years, 
or during good behaviour. 

Timothy Pickering to Samuel Kirkland. 

Timothy Pickering was Postmaster General and Superintendent of 
Indian Affairs in the Administration of George Washington. From 
the original, in the Library of the Massachusetts Historical Society. 

Philadelphia, Dec'r 4, 1791. 

Dear Sir: 

I have attentively examined your plan for instructing the 
Indians of the Five Nations in the arts of civil life. In its 
most striking features, it resembles the plan which last winter 
I submitted to the consideration of the President of the United 
States. I am pleased to find that the ideas entertained by me 
on the subject, after a single interview with the Indians, may 
be presumed to be just, from their correspondency with yours, 
which are the result of more than twenty years' experience. 
My design was only to suggest a general idea; not to enter 
into any details. You have descended to particulars ; on which, 
agreeably to your request, I will make such remarks as occur. 

I. For the reason you mention — " that the habits of a sav- 
age are at a very great remove from those of a civilized life " 
— the first essay for their instruction cannot be on a plan too 
simple. A school of plain learning and husbandry, should 
bound their first attempts. By plain learning, I mean such 
as that which in New England is acquired by the sons of com- 
mon farmers. At present there are no other objects to which 



36 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1791 

other learning can be applied; its acquisition therefore will 
be useless. It will be worse than useless. For want of proper 
objects, it will produce that uneasiness which arises from the 
want of employment. And this will lead to drunkenness; 
and indolence and drunkenness are fruitful sources of vice. 
If, indeed, an aspiring genius appeared, — though I would 
not obstruct, I should be at no pains to urge its pursuits. The 
same learning which would be proper for the farmer, would 
be suitable for the carpenter and blacksmith; and these two 
arts the Indians might be encouraged to learn, as well as the 
art of husbandry; because they are essentially necessary to 
each other. 

2. The necessity of coercive laws and government will not 
be very apparent, until they acquire property, by cultivating 
the useful arts. Their first legislators and judges can be no 
more than arbitrators, to whose decisions they may be per- 
suaded to submit their disputes. Abstract dissertations on 
laws and government would be little understood; because 
there are very few objects about which these could be exer- 
cised. At present the only material one would be to check 
private revenge. When, by practising the useful arts, they 
acquire property, laws will be necessary to secure its enjoy- 
ment. Laws, to be executed, must appear to be necessary. 
The difference between a state of nature and a state of civil- 
ization cannot be shown them by abstract reasoning; it can 
hardly strike them at any time more forcibly than at present, 
by a particular comparison of their wants, with the plenty of 
all desirable things which they see in the liands of their white 
neighbours. It would then be natural to show them by what 
active means the difference arose. 

3. Instruction in the principles of natural, and the doctrines 
of revealed religion, you place last in the order of education. 
And indeed I should be very late in an attempt to teach them 
the peculiar doctrines of revealed religion. First because they 
would find it difficult to comprehend them; and their concep- 
tions would be wild and extravagant. And secondly, because 
different teachers might place them in very different points 



1791] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE ^37 

of view; and such different views of the same thing (by all 
their teachers perhaps declared essential to salvation) would 
confound and discourage them; and probably make them sus- 
pect the whole to be an imposture. And this would bear 
unfavourably on all other points in which we v/ish to instruct 
them. But the principles of natural religion, and moral pre- 
cepts, being applicable to all people, at all times, it will be 
important to explain and inculcate. A short system on these 
subjects, drawn up in the most familiar stile and manner, 
would be a valuable acquisition. It would be alike valuable to 
the master and the scholar. 

4. Your idea of placing the first school in the neighborhood 
of one of our settlements, to facilitate the learning of the lan- 
guage and manners of the English citizens of the United 
States, appears to be just. 

5. The provision for the instruction of Indian youth, to 
qualify them to be school masters among their brethren, is 
very desirable; but at the out-set, I consider the agricultural 
by far the most important part of their education. The prac- 
tical knowledge of husbandry should therefore be an indis- 
pensable qualification for every schoolmaster whether white 
or brown; and daily, by direction and example, they should 
instruct the scholars in the practise of it. It will afford a 
healthful exercise to both master and scholars, and banish the 
greatest of evils — idleness. 

6. For the speedy and general instruction of the Indians in 
husbandry, you think it will be necessary to place in each vil- 
lage a good farmer. And you propose that when husbandry 
shall be considerably practised among them, a work-house 
should be established in one of their principal villages, in which 
the females, besides reading and writing, may be taught spin- 
ning and weaving. With the first idea I perfectly concur; 
but the latter, for many reasons, I do not think eligible, if it 
were practicable. But so far as it regards spinning and weav- 
ing, and domestic economy, the provision is obvious. Choose 
an honest, sober, and discreet farmer, with a wife of the same 



38 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1791 

description, for each considerable village ; and furnish them 
with cattle and instruments of husbandry, and spinning wheels, 
and the apparatus for weaving : Let the man teach the boys 
to cultivate the ground, manage the cattle, and perform every 
other labor of the husbandman, and the woman instruct the 
girls in spinning and weaving, and every other branch of 
business incident to a country life. There are multitudes of 
farmers who are carpenters, and farmers' wives who are 
weavers as well as spinners. Such should be preferred. The 
compensation to the farmer and his wife will be easy: it should 
depend on their own diligence, and the pains they take to 
instruct the Indians. Let it consist of a certain proportion 
of the increase of the cattle, and of the produce of the land 
and the loom. This proportion will be greater or less accord- 
ing to circumstances. At first it must be large ; and as their 
improvements and manufactures extend, it may be reduced. 
The Indians, for their encouragement, will share the residue. 
Tho' where the work is capable of a division, so that the labor 
of each can be ascertained; after deducting the farmer's share, 
the remainder should exclusively belong to the Indian by whose 
industry it was produced. 

The land cultivated by the farmer would belong to the 
Indians, but to encourage him to pursue the object with spirit, 
his tenure in it might be fixed to twenty years — dependent 
on his good behaviour. When schools were established in 
the villages, they should be placed near these farms, which 
would at once furnish to the master and scholars employment 
and support. 

But to carry any plan of civilizing the Indians into effect, 
traders must not be licensed, they must be excluded; or if 
admitted, they must be carefully selected, and not suffered to 
keep a drop of any intoxicating liquor. 

Wishing success to some plan of civilizing the Indians, I am 
etc. 

T. P. 
Rev'd Mr. Kirkland. 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 39 



John Kemp to Samuel Kirkland. 

Edinburgh, 27th January 1792. 
Revd and dear Sir, 

. The history of your labors and services during 
the course of your Mission continues to give the Society the 
same satisfaction, which they have formerly received from 
them. They observe, with much pleasure and approbation, 
your unwearied zeal and perseverance in the extension of the 
knowledge of the Gospel among the Indian tribes, and your 
humane and benevolent attention to the interests, both tem- 
poral and spiritual, of these remote and benighted people, and 
they trust you will long be enabled to continue your exertions 
in the arduous and important work. The residence of your 
family at Oneida, I hope, will tend to make your situation 
more comfortable, by enabling you, in the midst of the wilder- 
ness, to enjoy the comforts of domestic society. 

The Society are happy to find that the important plan of 
attempting the Establishment of Schools in the Indian Coun- 
try is now to be carried into execution. They hope that Mr. 
Calkins will prove able and fruitful in the discharge of the 
trust, and they have the more confidence of the utility of the 
measure from the school being situated in the vicinity of 
Oneida, where the Teacher may enjoy the benefit of your 
advice and instruction. 

Your plan for the education of the Indian youth was read 
over and carefully considered by the Directors at their last 
meeting. Their sentiments on the subject I have communi- 
cated in a Letter to Mr. Thacher. In general they approve 
highly of the scope and strain of the proposed plan, but as 
they wished for cooperation from some American Societies 
for carrying it into execution, some additional information 
(which I have mentioned to Mr. Thacher) will be wanted, 
before they come to a final Resolution on the subject. In the 
mean time the attempt now to be made in the neighborhood 
of Oneida may perhaps from experience furnish some farther 
suggestions, for assuring the wished for success. 



40 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

I shall wait, with some impatience, for answers to the ques- 
tions I used the freedom to ])ut to you, particularly in regard 
to the state of Aloor's Indian School. I wrote to you with 
unreserved confidence and hope you will continue the same 
friendship and cordiality your last letters express. 

With the highest personal Esteem, and sincerest wishes for 
your welfare and happiness, I remain, Revd Dear Sir 

Your most faithful hble Sert 
Jo : Kemp. 
Mr. Kirkland. 

Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea) to Samuel Kirkland. 

Niagara 4th Febry 1792. 
My dear Friend, 

Your long epistle of the 3d ult. I six days agone received. 
I am particularly happy to hear that you are settled 
to your satisfaction in the Oneida country, and that you mean 
still to persevere in good works, the accomplishing which will 
require patience and perseverance, both of which I must say 
you are remarked for. Since your general Government has 
founded the establishment and are anxious of succeeding in 
civilization, I have no doubt of their success. It may at first 
seem a difficult task, particularly so to those who may be set 
over us, unacquainted in any wise with our manners or cus- 
toms, but this is a circumstance easily surmounted, as there 
may always be found some well acquainted w^ith us, with whom 
our Pastors might advise if themselves were uninformed. 
As the plan for this civilization has been drafted by you (so 
well acquainted with us) and approved of your Government 
as the Patron of this good work, the assistance that will be 
rendered will enable you to begin the undertaking in person, 
with your usual alacrity, spirit, and perseverance, there can 
be no doubt but that the end intended will be answered. The 
good effects that you mention that the Creeks and Cherokees 
begin to feel from the establishment will be an incentive to 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 41 

perform this great, this praiseworthy work, the accomplish- 
ing which must ever redound to the credit of the U. S., and 
mark the first Promoter with the highest pubHc applause : 
the secret pleasing satisfaction that the undertaker will be 
afforded, in reflecting on the good works in which he will be 
daily employed, must be such as none but those in a similar 
pursuit will be able to judge of. If doing good deeds will 
render a person fit for the kingdom of Heaven, accomplishing 
this Xian like desirable business of civilization must and will 
render his (or their) names famous to posterity. Should you 
be enabled to pursue your intentions, you shall find every 
assistance that I can any ways afford, and shall ever be happy 
whenever opportunitys may serve, to join my poor endeavors 
with yours in forwarding what we both seemingly wish 
for. '. . . 

With compliments to my friends, your friend and well- 
wisher, 

Jos. Brant. 
Revd Saml Kirkland. 

Thomas Casety to Samuel Kirkland. 

Paris, 2y April 1792. 
Dear Sir : 

I doubt not you recolect a conversation that once pas^ 
between you and me at the time Schonandeow's Bridge was 
built concerning some land that lay near the place where said 
Bridge was erected. It was then our opinion that if said 
Land can be obtained by the consent of the Indians and the 
Legislature of the State of New York for the appropriation 
and support of an Academy to promote Literature, useful 
Science, and Religion among them (the true Source from 
which the happiness of the human race can only spring) that 
an undertaking so laudable in itself ought to be forwarded 
by every just effort. I am well convinced from the goodness 
that so much distinguishes your character you have not lost 



42 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

sight of so desirable an o1)ject. From conversation I have 
had with my neighbors on the subject tliey appear all inter- 
ested in the business and say that they will exert every nerve, 
accompanyd with your well known perseverance and patience 
which have been exersizd by many years endurance for the 
benefit of your fellow men to forward the somuch desired 
object, being well convinc^, knowledge is the Fountain from 
which the Peace, Greatness and Happiness of Republican Gov- 
ernments flow as that ignorance is favorable to monarchy, 
the source of indigence and slavery; putting entire confidence 
in your ability and exertion knowing them to be equal to the 
task, I hope so principled an undertaking will have a favor- 
able end. 

With many Apologys for the imperfections of my Letter, 
1 am with the greatest esteem and many well wishes for your 
happiness 

Your very obdnt Serv' 

Thomas Casety. 
Revd Samuel Kirkland. 

E. WiGGLESWORTH TO PetER ThACHER. 

From the original in Dartmouth College Library 

Cambridge April 30, 1792. 
Revd Sir, 

Upon a careful attention to your letter of the 27th I find 
I cannot express my sentiments on M^ Kirkland's plan more 
fully than I did in a letter to Dr Erskine of last December. 
I have enclosed you an extract from it, which I wish you 
would be so kind as to communicate to the Commissioners, 
and to assure the gentlemen of the Board that I shall esteem 
myself happy in conferring with a committee of them at my 
house. The outlines of Mr. Kirkland's plan I approve, but. 
at the same time, am of opinion that no expence ought to 
accrue to the Society in Scotland, or to that among ourselves, 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 43 

exceptin^^ for the support of an Instructor, and possibly a 
grant of a certain sum toward defraying the expence of erect- 
ing a school room. 

E. Wigglesworth. 
Rev. Di" Thacher. 

Secy etc. 

Samuel Kirklaxd to Peter Thacher. 

Oneida June 6th 1792. 
Rev^ and dear Sir, 

I had the honor of addressing you from Stockbridge the 
15th ultimo, in which I gave you a sketch of my long tour 
through the Seneka's Country and journey to Philadelphia 
with a delegation from the five Nations to propose and adopt 
measures for introducing the arts of civilized life among them. 
I also informed you that Congress had granted 1500 dollars 
annually for the term of 21 years, for the express purpose 
of introducing civilization among the five Nations, in the 
following manner, viz. for the support of a blacksmith, car- 
penter, farmer, and a common school master in four estab- 
lishments, viz. one at Oneida, including the vicinity, and 
extending as far as Onondago; the second at Geneseo; the 
third at Buffaloe Creek ; the fourth at the Allegheny ; the two 
former only to be attempted the present year. The persons 
to be employed are to be of good moral character and exemp- 
lary — particularly to be free from the vices of idleness, pro- 
phaneness and intemperance — but where such will be found, 
with every other necessary qualification, together with the 
small wages allowed, I know not. 

The disposition that now prevails among the Indians for 
the instruction of their children is remarkable, and not less 
so, the disposition that now seems to have roused up in many 
parts of the United States, to attend to the situation, cause 
and complaints of the poor Indians, which have been too long 
neglected. At the same time, it appears a strange thing to 



44 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

them, if the Christian reHgion be so such vast importance, 
that so httle has been said to them about it by the Americans, 
except a few good ministers who reside in Boston, and corre- 
spond with the good ministers over the great water — as they 
say. The force of this objection, in the manner in which 
some of them will dress it up, has been difficult to remove. 

There are now two small villages, besides the Onondagoes, 
which wish for a school master, and in the course of one or 
two years there will be probably the addition of two more, as 
all the Oneidas residing at the Genesee have determined to 
remove down to the vicinity of Oneida, the next fall or spring. 

Should I be able to prosecute my plan for erecting one prin- 
cipal school in the vicinity of Oneida, the whole might be 
soon supplied with school masters of their own respective 
tribes, to teach the rudiments of the English language and 
arithmetic, together with reading and writing in the Indian 
language. . . . 

The school here, under the care of Mr. Calkins, is in a very 
flourishing condition. By next winter will probably have 
betwixt 50 and 60 scholars, and will require the assistance of 
an usher, with a small salary. I expect two young boys from 
the Cayoga country, to be boarded at Oneida, or in my own 
family a part of the time. 

Mr. Calkins appears to be one of a thousand for the busi- 
ness, if he can be prevailed upon to prosecute it. Most of the 
Indians are exceedingly fond of him, and approve of his 
method of instruction, and even fully justify his rigid dis- 
cipline, which is very remarkable of Indians. The proficiency 
of one of his scholars in writing has astonished the Indians, 
and will scarcely gain the credit of the Hon^l Board (without 
well attested evidence) when they come to receive a specimen 
of it. 

With all the dispatch my health will allow I shall tran- 
scribe my journal, with an estimate of the expense of my plan 
of Indian education, and forward to the Hon^l Board. I am 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 45 

obliged to attend to the immediate concerns of the Indians, 
whether sick or well; there is no denial in the present state 
of things among them. 

Your obed. hum. Servt and affectionate Brothr in the 
Gospel, 

S. Kirkland. 
Revd Mr Thacher, Secrty. 

Samuel Kirkland to Peter Thacher. 

Near Oneida, June 30th 1792. 
Revd and Hond Sir, 

When I had the honor of addressing you last, I expected by 
this time to have transcribed my journal, but the state of the 
Indians, with their various concerns, since my return from 
my western tour, have occupied too much of my time. We 
have had many councils upon their temporal and political as 
well as religious affairs, and part of the time I have not enjoyed 
good health. 

You desired of me an accurate map of the territory of the 
five Nations, or to inform you where one might be obtained. 
I referred you to Mr. Gorham for what is commonly called 
the Massachusetts preemption ; the other I expected to procure 
of the Surveyor General of this State — but could not see him 
on my way from Stockbridge to Oneida. 

You wish for an estimate of the probable expences requisite 
to give efBcacy to the plan of Indian Education I drew up 
last year, a copy of which I presented to the Board at my last 
meeting with them. The following estimate I beg leave to 
submit : 

Towards erecting a suitable and convenient 
building for the proposed school 200 dollfs. 

The support of the six or eight Indian youths 
statedly as proposed in the plan 300 p. ann. 

N. B. Congress now give 300 dolKs pr an- 
num only for the boarding of two Indian Lads 



46 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

in the City of Philadelphia — viz. Corn Plant- 
er's son and a nephew of McGillevery. 

As besides the above number there will be 
(particularly in the winter season) from twenty 
to thirty occasional scholars without any charge 
except their tuition, books and stationary. 

The support of an able instructor 250 p. ann. 

Books and stationary for the whole, including 
the common schools in their respective villages, 
at least for the first three years 75 P- ann. 

The place for erecting the principal School, as most con- 
venient for attaining the ends proposed, and which has been 
pretty generally agreed upon, is about one mile north of the 
Indian village called Brothertown, on the Oriskene Creek, 
about one mile and a quarter east of the Oneida's line of sepa- 
ration, and about one mile west of thq Oriskene Creek, where 
there is a settlement of white people, many of whom, espe- 
cially those nearest the place proposed for the school, are 
respectable families, friends to industry, learning, and religion, 
and support a good moral character. It is proposed that a 
small piece of land, perhaps 15 or 20 acres, should be appro- 
priated to the sole use and benefit of the school, and that the 
Master and Scholars, instead of the usual diversions of school 
boys, should exercise themselves one or two hours every week 
day in improving and cultivating this glebe, that the scholars 
may, if possible, early imbibe a habit of industry and love of 
agriculture, which ought to be considered as an essential part 
of their education. The profits arising from the cultivation 
of this school field or garden, which I should wish to have 
carried to a high degree of improvement, both in the orna- 
mental as well as the useful, I would have distributed in pre- 
miums to the most industrious scholars, or laid out in pur- 
chasing Books for the School. This will require such utensils 
as axes, spades, hoes, and shovels, and such implements of 
husbandry at the outset. The expence of these would not be 
jrreat. 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 47 

That part of the plan relating to the introduction of hus- 
bandry in general and the mechanic arts among them, the 
Government of the United States have undertaken to execute, 
an acct of which I have heretofore transmitted to you. No 
estimate therefore is here made respecting it. 

The building a work house for the education of the females 
must be deferred till agriculture has made fair progress among 
the Indians. 

For the English part of the School, there has been some 
property in uncultivated, tho' valuable, lands contributed, 
which is to be committed to a body of Trustees with a charter 
of corporation from the State or Congress, and the proceeds 
of it, as soon as cultivated, to be applied to the support of 
the Instructor. Some money and materials have been already 
subscribed, which, with the sum mentioned in the estimate, 
and what more may probably be obtained, will be sufficient 
for erecting the building, and support of the Indian youth 
proposed, in order to make one fair trial for the education 
of Indians. 

For the present year I shall only prepare accommodations 
for several of the Chiefs' sons — just to make a beginning — 
and at the same time keep up the common school in their 
principal Village under Mr. Calkin. . . . 

The Oneidas and Onondagoes, since their return from 
Philadelphia, have been so much engaged in their political 
concerns, particularly in preparing a delegation, with proper 
speeches, to go to the westward, with a view to bring about a 
general peace, they have not yet in full council formed their 
address to the Honbl Board upon this plan of Indian educa- 
tion. It is probable one of their young chiefs will accompany 
me down on a visit to the Board in September next, for a 
free conference upon the subject. 

Good Peter, with four other Oneidas, set out the last week 
for Buffaloe Creek, where they expect to meet with a delega- 
tion from the seven tribes in Canada, also a delegation from 
some of the hostile tribes in the vicinity of the Miamee. 



48 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

I inclose you a specimen of the improvement in the art of 
writing of several Indian Boys, under the instruction of your 
Schoolmaster, Mr. Calkin. 

The one named John appears to have a genius for the fine 
Arts — painting, musick, etc. 

Mr. Calkin's task at present is very hard and laborious. 
He has now upwards of sixty scholars, and his accommoda- 
tions are very poor. He has labored under every disadvantage, 
during my absence on my western tour, and supported him- 
self, altho' a great oeconomist, at great expence. His salary 
of £20 for six months, will barely defray his expences of 
boarding, with the company he has been exposed to, exclusive 
of his journey and transportation of a little baggage for near 
300 miles. I doubt not the Honbl Board will make him a 
proper extra allowance. Provisions are so scarce and bear 
so high a price at Oneida, that it is, all things considered, as 
dear boarding there as in the City of Boston, and cannot be 
much otherwise till such times as the Schoolmaster, Carpenter, 
etc., shall be in a position to raise their own Bread, or live 
solely on Indian fare. 

Your obedt and very obliged humb^ Serv* 

S. Kirkland. 
Revd Dr Thacher 
Secretary to the 

Board of Commiss^s 

Report of a Committee Appointed by the Board of Com- 
missioners FOR THE Society in Scotland to Consider 
Kirkland's Plan of Education. 

From the original in Dartmouth College Library 

The Committee appointed by the Board of Scotch Commis- 
sioners, at a meeting held June 15, 1792, to take Mr. Kirk- 
land's Plan of an Indian School in the Oneida Country, into 
consideration, and to report their sentiments upon the subject, 
have attended the business, and take leave to report : 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 49 

That they have had a personal conference with Mr. Kirk- 
land; and having entered into a free conversation with him 
upon the subject, and received from him explanations of such 
parts as they wished, find the plan, in their judgment, well 
calculated to promote the improvement of the Indian youth, 
and beg leave to propose: 

( 1 ) That it be recommended to the Society in Scotland, to 
enable their Corresponding Board in Boston to draw for two 
hundred dollars towards erecting a building for a School, upon 
a Charter's being obtained, agreeable to Mr. Kirkland's pro- 
posals, and an attested copy of it being transmitted to the 
Secretary of the Board ; and also to enable them to draw for 
three hundred and twenty five dollars per annum, in semi- 
annual or quarterly payments, for the maintenance of an able 
Instructor, and for books and stationary for Indian youth; 
and also one hundred dollars annually, for seven years, for 
seven Indian youth, to be selected agreeably to the second 
article of Mr. Kirkland's Plan. 

(2) That it be recommended to the Massachusetts Indian 
Society and to the Corporation of Harvard University to 
contribute one hundred dollars each, per annum, for seven 
years, for the same purpose. 

(3) That an account of the state of the Indian youth in 
the school, and the expenditures of the money for their service, 
be annually transmitted to the three above-mentioned Boards. 

Joseph Willard per order. 
Deer 6, 1792 

This Report is accepted. 

Kirkland's Plan for the Academy, 
A General Plan of Education for the Academy in Whites- 
town and vicinity of Oneida, with Rules and Laws for regula- 
ting the same, approved by a majority of the Trustees. 

A short reflection upon the grand design of the great Parent 
of the Universe in the creation of Mankind, and the improve- 
4 



50 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

ments of which the mind is capable both in knowledge and 
virtue ; as well as upon the prevalence of ignorance and vice, 
disorder and wickedness, and upon the direct tendency and 
certain issue of such a course of things, must occasion in a 
thoughtful mind an anxious solicitude to find the source of 
these evils, and their remedy; and a small acquaintance with 
young minds, how susceptible and tenacious they are of im- 
pressions, evidences, that youth is the important period, on 
the improvement or neglect of which depend the most im- 
portant consequences, both to individuals themselves, and the 
community at large. 

A serious consideration of the premises, the importance of 
education, an early improvement and cultivation of the human 
mind, together with the situation of the frontier settlements 
of this part of the state, tho' extensive and flourishing, destitute 
of any well-regulated seminary of learning, have determined 
us to contribute of the ability wherewith our Heavenly Bene- 
factor hath blessed us, towards laying the foundation of a 
Free School, or Academy, in the town of Whitestown and 
County of Herkimer, contiguous to the Oneida Nation of 
Indians, for the mutual benefit of the young flourishing settle- 
ments in said County and the various tribes of confederate 
Indians, agreeably to the respective plans proposed for said 
Seminary. 

1. That a suitable building for the purpose be erected, west- 
wardly of Capt. Cassety's mills, in Whitestown, near the line 
of property (so called) — not less than eighty rods nor more 
than one hundred ninety from said line. 

2. That the Academy or 'Seminary of Learning be incor- 
porated, and subject to the visitation of the Regents of the 
University of the State of New York — and that the Honble 
Alexander Hamilton Esquire Secretary of the Treasury of 
the U. S., the Honbl John Lansing Esquire, the Honbl Egbert 
Benson Esquire, the Rev^ Dan Bradly, Eli Bristoll, Erastus 
Clark, James Dean, Moses Foot, Jonas Piatt, Jedidiah Sanger, 
Revd John Sergeant, Timothy Tuttle, and Sam^ Wells, be 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 51 

appointed the first Trustees of said Seminary, with power to 
increase the number of Trustees to the number of twenty-one, 
whenever a majority of the Persons above named, shall upon 
due notice think proper to elect suitable persons to compleat 
the said number of twenty-one Trustees, and they and their 
successors in ofifice shall be known and distinguished by the 
Name or Stile of the Trustees of the Hamilton Oneida 
Academy. 

3. The Master, or principal, for the time being shall ever 
be one of the Trustees. 

4. The Trustees shall meet (so many of them as con- 
veniently can) on the fourth Tuesday in Febry next, and ever 
after, once in every year, on such day as they shall appoint; 
also upon emergences, when called thereto, as hereafter 
directed ; and a major part of the Trustees shall, when regularly 
convened, be a Quorum, of which Quorum a major part shall 
have power to transact the business of their Trust, except in 
cases hereafter excepted. And their first meeting shall be at 
the house of Sam' Kirkland Miss^y — (near the line of prop- 
erty so called.) At which meeting shall be chosen the officers 
of the Trust, and such other business transacted as the Trus- 
tees shall think proper. 

5. There shall be chosen annually a President, Clerk, and 
Treasurer, as officers of the Trust, of their own number, who 
shall continue in their respective offices 'till their places are 
supplied by a new election ; and upon the decease of either of 
them, another shall be chosen in his room at the next meeting. 

6. The master or principal, shall not be chosen President, 
and no man shall sustain the office of Clerk and Treasurer 
at the same time. 

7. The President shall in all cases give his voice and vote 
in common with any other member, and whenever there shall 
be an equal division of the members on any question, it shall 
be determined, on that side, whereon the President shall have 
given his vote ; and in his absence, at any meeting of the 
Trustees, another shall be appointed, who shall be invested 
with the same power during his absence. 



52 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

He shall call special meetings upon application of any three 
of the Trustees ; or upon the concurrence of any two of the 
Trustees in sentiment with him on the occasion of such 
meeting. 

And upon the decease of the President a special meeting 
may be called by any three of the Trustees. 

All notifications for special meetings sliall express the busi- 
ness to be transacted, if convenient; and be given at least one 
month previous to such meeting, if not incompatible with the 
welfare of the Seminary; and when a special meeting shall be 
called for the appointment of an Instructor, or to transact 
other business of material consequence, information shall be 
given by leaving a written notification at the house of each 
Trustee, or in such other way as that the President, or mem- 
bers notifying, shall have good reason to believe that each 
member has received the notice. 

8. The Clerk or Secretary shall record all votes of the 
Trustees, inserting the names of those present at every 
meeting. 

He shall keep a fair record of every donation, inserting the 
name of such Benefactor; the purposes to which it is appro- 
priated, if expressed — whether for the support of the prin- 
cipal Instructor, or an assistant — the Academy at large — 
or for the education of Indian youth — and of all expendi- 
tures : and a true copy of the whole shall be taken and kept 
in the Seminary to be open for the perusal of all men. 

And if he shall be absent at any meeting of the Trustees, 
another Person shall be appointed to serve in his room, during 
such absence. 

The Treasurer shall, previous to his receiving the interest 
of the Seminary into his hands, give bond for the faithful 
discharge of his office in such sum as the Trustees shall direct, 
with sufficient sureties, to the Trustees of the Seminary for 
the time being by name, the said bond to express the use both 
in the obligatory part and in the condition. 

He shall give duplicate Receipts for all monies received. 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 53 

countersigned by one of the Trustees, one to the Donor, the 
other to be lodged with such member as the Trustees shall 
from time to time direct : and the Trustees shall take such 
other measures as they shall deem requisite to make the Treas- 
urer accountable, and especially to secure the interest of the 
Seminary. 

The Trustees, shall let, or rent out the lands, already given 
(or that may hereafter be given) in such manner as they shall 
find on the whole will best serve the interest of the Academy. 

Upon the Death, resignation, or removal of the Master, 
the Trustees shall appoint another in his stead. 

9. Whereas the success of the Institution much depends 
under Providence on a discreet choice of the Principal Instruc- 
tor, and the human mind is liable to imperceptible bias; it is 
therefore required that when any candidate for election as 
Principal Instructor, is so near akin to any member of the 
Trust, as a Nephew, or Cousin, in determining that election, 
any member to whom the Candidate is thus related, shall not 
vote. 

The Trustees are impowered to appoint such assistant, or 
assistants, in and for the service of the Academy, as they shall 
judge will best promote its usefulness, and may be duly 
encouraged. 

No Person may be chosen as a principal Instructor, unless a 
professor of the Christian religion, or of an unblemished 
moral character — of exemplary manners, of good natural 
abilities, of literary acquirements, of a good acquaintance with 
human nature, with a natural aptitude for instruction and 
government. 

And in the appointment of any Instructor, regard shall be 
had to qualifications only, without preference of kindred or 
friend, place of Birth, education or residence. 

The Trustees shall make a Contract with each Master and 
Assistant before their entrance upon the office, as to salary, 
of which there shall be no alteration but in their favour, which 
the Trustees are empowered to make, as shall to them appear 
reasonable and the incomes of the Seminary will admit. 



54 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

It shall be their duty to enquire into the conduct of the 
Master and assistant, and if they, or either of them, be found 
justly chargeable with such misconduct, neglect of duty, or 
incapacity, as said Trustees shall judge renders them, or either 
of them, unfit to continue in office, they shall remove the 
Master, or any assistant so chargeable. 

The Trustees shall determine the qualifications requisite to 
entitle youth to an admission into this Academy. 

As the welfare of the Institution will be greatly promoted, 
by its members being conversant with persons of good 
character only, no Scholar may enjoy the priviledges of the 
Academy (except the Children of its Benefactors) who shall 
board in any family, which is not licensed by the Trustees. 
And in order to preserve the Institution from the baneful 
influence of the incorrigibly vicious, the Trustees shall deter- 
mine for what reasons a Scholar shall be expelled, and the 
manner in which the sentence shall be administered. 

Upon the death, resignation, or incapacity for the service, 
by reason of age or otherwise, of any of the Trustees, the 
remaining Trustees shall supply the vacancy by a new election. 

In settling the salary and perquisites of the Master, and in 
the consideration of every other question in which the Master 
is particularly interested, he shall not sit. 

So soon as the Funds will admit, at the annual meeting of 
the Trustees, there shall be a decent, not extravagant enter- 
tainment; and that two, and not more than six, Indian Chiefs 
of the five Nations, be invited to attend the same, which will 
afford them an opportunity, of learning the state of the 
Academy, and seeing the improvements of the Indian youth. 

Oeconomy is ever to be viewed by Trustees and Instructors 
in their respective capacities as an object worthy of their 
particular recommendation. 

The Master, when appointed, shall receive applications for 
the admission of Scholars, and determine agreeably to the 
rules respecting the same. 

He shall conform himself to the rules and regulations estab- 
lished by the Trustees, and have power from time to time to 



1792] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 55 

make such other consistent rules and orders as he shall find 
necessary for the internal management and regulation of the 
Academy ; which rules and orders shall be subject to the exam- 
ination, amendment or discontinuance of the Trustees at their 
discretion. 

It shall ever be considered as the first and principal duty 
of the Master to regulate the tempers, to enlarge the minds, 
and form the morals of the youth committed to his care. The 
culture of the heart is to be considered as an important object 
in every branch and part of education ; that the Seminary may 
prove an eminent mean, of diffusing useful knowledge, en- 
larging the bounds of human happiness, and aiding the reign 
of virtue and Kingdom of the blessed Redeemer, which are 
professed hy the ultimate end of its institution. 

lo. The General Plan of Education for this Academy is as 
follows : 

There shall be taught the English, Latin, and Greek 
languages ; But learning to speak, spell, read, and write the 
English language, with propriety, accuracy, and elegance, is 
to be considered an important object. 

Natural History, Geography, Chronology, Music, Arith- 
metic, practical Geometry, Logic, moral and natural Phi- 
losophy, Metaphysics, the higher Mathematics, Laws and 
Government, the principles of Agriculture, commerce and 
manufactures, and those things that contribute to the wealth 
population and happiness of states and nations. 

The study of Government will lead to the knowledge of 
Republican Government in general. But the pupils should be 
led more particularly, to attend to the form, principles and 
supports of the Government of our own Country; they should 
be carefully taught where lie the dangers to which our national 
freedom and happiness is exposed, and what are the means of 
guarding against them. 

And as Agriculture is the source of subsistence and wealth 
to our Country, the friend of health, innocence, knowledge 
and liberty; this is to be strongly recommended and en- 
couraged by the Master. For which purpose a small piece of 



56 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1792 

land, not exceeding lo or 12 acres, shall be appropriated to 
the sole use and benefit of the Academy, and shall be laid out, 
near to or adjoining the same. It is the wish of the Founders 
and Benefactors, that the Master, or Assistant, with the 
Scholars, instead of the usual diversions of School Boys, 
should exercise themselves one or two hours every week-day 
in improving this glebe : that the Scholars, and more par- 
ticularly the Indian youth, may if possible cultivate a habit of 
industry and learn agriculture. 

And fully to answer the design, it should be carried to a 
high degree of improvement both in the ornamental as well 
as useful. 

The cultivation of various kinds of plants, flowers, and 
trees would answer the double purpose of affording amuse- 
ment, and assisting in the study of natural history. 

Let the profits arising from the cultivation of this garden, 
be distributed by the Trustees, in whole or in part, as premiums 
to the most meritorious of the Students, or for the procuring 
a Library. 

The Scholars shall be taught their duties as men, citizens, 
and Christians, and the greatest care taken that the knowledge 
and love of them be instilled into their minds as fast and as 
soon as they are capable of receiving it, that they may be led 
to see the beauty of virtue and its tendency to happiness, the 
deformity of vice and its tendency to misery. 

As their minds grow ripe for it (more particularly the 
Indian youth) let the evidences, doctrines, precepts, and sanc- 
tions of Revelation and the gospel plan of salvation by a 
Redeemer be unfolded to them, together with their important 
and intimate relation to the Supreme Being be pointed out. 
II. The election of all officers shall be by ballot only. [The 
remainder of this paragraph is torn out of the manuscript. 
It provided for the admission of Indian youth to the 
Academy. ] 

In witness whereof the subscribers have hereunto set their 
hands and seals. 

Saml Kirkland. 



1795]- OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 57 

From Kirkland's Journal, 1792-1793. 

August 4. Saturday. . . . Through the whole week I 
have been incessantly thronged with Indians from various 
parts ; some full of their wants and distresses ; some to confer 
with me upon the Plan of Indian Education — if it be like 
to succeed. . . . 

II. Saturday. In the course of the week I had several 
conferences with some of the more intelligent Indians upon 
the subject of the School, or Flan of Indian Education which 
I had drawn up. They seemed to be very impatient to have 
it begun, that the experiment might be made. . . . 

December 10. Monday. . . . The Indian School, that 
has been so long proposed, agreeably to my Plan of Indian 
Education, has become an object of enquiry to many; and 
some grow uneasy, complain of delays, and blame me for not 
having set it up before now. I have concluded to take a 
journey, by leave of Providence, partly with a view to obtain 
some effectual relief for my eyes, and partly in behalf of the 
Indians and the proposed School, which will oblige me to go as 
far as New York, if not to Philadelphia. . . . 

Jany 3, 1793. New York. Waited on several gentlemen 
of the Honbl Board of Regents of the University of this State, 
and conferred with them upon the subject of the School and 
plan of Indian education. They expressed, individually, the 
highest approbation of the plan — its general utility, and the 
methods proposed. The Governor, who is President of the 
Board (ex officio) appointed a meeting of the Regents, when 
the plan of the proposed Seminary should be laid before them 
for their consideration. Several of the members being at a 
distance, they could not be notified short of twelve or fourteen 
days. Presented several Indian petitions to particular mem- 
bers of the Legislature. , . . 

Conclude to take the stage to Philadelphia, in order to con- 
fer with the Honbl Mr Hamilton, Secretary of the United 
States, and others, upon the subject of the School. 



58 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

8. Philadelphia. Waited on the President. He again ex- 
pressed his approbation of the proposed Seminary, as well as 
that part of the Plan which has been adopted, for introducing 
and promoting agriculture among the Indians. 

Mr Hamilton chearfully consents to be a Trustee of the said 
Seminary, and will afford it all the aid in his power; which 
was requested by Good Peter and several other Indian Chiefs 
when at Philadelphia the last spring. . . . 

26. New York. Having obtained a meeting of the Hon^l 
Board of Regents, presented them with the following Petition, 
and sundry other papers relative to the same. . . . 

The Regents of the University, after having read the Peti- 
tion, Plan of Indian Education, Rules for Regulating the 
Academy, etc., appointed a Committee to report upon them at 
their next meeting; but by reason of the indisposition of two 
of their number and the absence of a third, they could not 
make a quorum — which detained me two weeks longer than 
I should have otherwise been. 

The Committee reported unanimously in favor of the Peti- 
tion, and expressed in terms of high approbation their opinion 
of the propriety and utility of the Institution, 

The Charter of Incorporation was accordingly granted 
under their hand and seal. . . . 

May 20. Received an attested copy from the Clerk of the 
Board of Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy, to the Revd 
and Honbl Board of Correspondents in Boston etc., directed 
to Dr Thacher, Secry — which I here insert. 

Original Subscription Form, Hamilton Oneida 
Academy. 
A Plan for establishing a School or Seminary of learning 
in the Town of Whitestown, and County of Herkimer, con- 
tiguous to the Oneida Nation of Indians, for the mutual benefit 
of the young flourishing settlements in this County and the 
various Tribes of Confederate Indians, proposed to the inhabi- 
tants of Whitestown and the County aforesaid. 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 59 

The importance of education and an early improvement and 
cultivation of the human mind is almost universally acknowl- 
edged. Experience teaches that nothing tends more to pro- 
mote the happiness of society, to give dignity and reputation 
to a commonwealth, and aid the reign of virtue, than well 
established Institutions for the education of youth in every 
branch of useful literature. Philosophers generally allow that 
the difference between one Nation and another is not so much 
owing to the unequal distribution of Nature's gifts, as to 
the nurturing hand of Education. 

It is Learning which hath made such astonishing distinctions 
among the different Nations of the earth. That people which 
hath lived under the warm and enlightening beams of Science 
has ever appeared like a superior order of beings, in com- 
parison with those who have dragged out their lives under the 
cold and dark shades of ignorance. The human mind is like 
some precious stone, whose inherent beauties and excellencies 
are not discoverable till it hath gone through the hand of the 
polisher. 

Perhaps no Country in the world is more indebted to the 
cause of Learning than the United States of America. Her 
present inhabitants owe all their superiority to the native 
savages of the wilderness, in point of dignity, to the cultiva- 
tion of their minds in morals and in the civil and polite arts. 
And more than this; to the well informed mind of her citizens 
does she owe her present important rank in the scale of 
Nations; and to this is she indebted for the establishment of 
a Constitution and Government which are an honour to human 
nature; and on this alone (under God) do the preservation 
of her future liberties, and all the invaluable rights of man- 
kind, essentially depend. 

Knowledge, next to Religion, is the brightest ornament of 
human nature. It strengthens, enlarges, and softens the human 
soul, and sets its dignity and beauty in the fairest light. Our 
natural powers are so many Talents, which in their own nature 
lay us under moral obligation to improve and cultivate them 
to the best advantage, agreeably to the doctrine of our divine 



60 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

Teacher : " Whoso hath, to him shall be given, and he shall 
have abundantly." 

What more noble and engaging considerations can be urged 
to prove the propriety, absolute necessity, and good policy of 
making the cause of literature an object of attention; and 
what higher motives can be suggested to claim our earliest 
exertions to place on liberal and solid grounds the education 
of our youth in these infant, but growing and flourishing, 
settlements on the frontiers of this State? 

Our great distance from any School or well regulated 
Seminary of learning clearly evinces the importance of having 
one established among ourselves; otherwise our youth must 
grow up ignorant of the arts and sciences, or their education 
be attended with very great expense. 

We, the Subscribers, being duly sensible of the importance 
of the Object, and willing to discharge our duty which as 
Parents we owe to our respective families, or as good Citizens 
which is due from us to the Community of which we are a 
part, do fully agree that it demands our immediate and un- 
remitting attention. It is our desire that a decent and con- 
venient building may be erected in some part of this Town, 
so soon as may be, for the reception of a number of youth, 
and that an able and skillful Master be employed to superintend 
their education. 

And if our united efforts in our present infant state should 
prove inadequate to the attaining of the desired object, we 
hope the hand of Charity will lend her friendly aid to complete 
a design so truly laudable and of such public utility. And 
whereas the Revd Samuel Kirkland, Missionary, has for some 
time had it in contemplation to erect a School in the vicinity 
of Oneida and contiguous to an English settlement for the 
purpose of educating a number of Indian youth as well as 
extending the means of education to the adjacent frontier 
Towns ; and whereas the said Kirkland has encouragement of 
obtaining a considerable fund for the use and benefit of the 
proposed School or Academy; we the Subscribers etc., etc. 
August, 1790. 



1793] 



OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 



61 



Original Subscription for the Establishment of 
Hamilton Oneida Academy, i 792-1 793 

From a copy in the handwriting of Samuel Kirkland, in the College Library 



Cash 
Names of Subscribers £ sh 
Samuel Kirkland 10 

300 acres of land 

for the use and 

benefit of the Academy to be 



John Sergeant 
Moses Foot 



James Dean 

Jed*"' Sanger 

100 acres of land of 

Sewall Hopkins 
Timothy Tuttle 



Dan. Bradley 
Eli Bristoll 

Ralph W. Kirkland 
Skene D. Sacket 
Seth Blair 
Deod'- Clark 
Erastus Clark 
Jonas Piatt 
Tho'- Casety 
Isaac Jones 
Elias Kane 
Henry Merril 
John Young 



o 15 days' work 



leased & the product applied 
towards the support of 
an able Instructor. 

o 

o 



1000 feet of timber, 5000 
feet of boards, & 20 
days work. 
2000 feet of Hemlock 

boards 
100 feet of 7 X 9 glass 
45 th lot in the 20th Township in the 
Unadilla purchase, 
o Ten Days Labour 
o 500 feet of Clapboards, 
1000 shingles, and 10 
days work. 



2 





2 





2 





I 





I 


16 





8 


I 





2 





2 





3 





3 





I 


10 


10 





I 





2 






400 feet of timber, 

days work 
6 days work 
6 days work 
6 days work 
1000 feet of boards 



20 



o 3 days work 



62 



DOCUMENTARY HISTORY 



[1793 



Original Subscription for the Establishment of 
Hamilton Oneida Academy, i 792-1 793 — Continued: 



Names of Subscribers 
Jesse Hunger 
Samuel Laird 
Elizur Moseley 
Lorin Webb 
Joshua Vaughan 
Ephr""- Blackmer 
Joseph Blackmer 
Israel Green 
Joel Bristoll 

Ezra Hart 
Aaron Kenman 
Abner Ormsby 
Stephen Willard 

Brunson Foot 

Consider Law 
John Blunt 

Sor- Thomson 
John Townsend 
Amos Parmely 
Nath'- Townsend 
Silas Phelps 

Moses Dewitt 
Thomas Hooker 
Noah Taylor 
Nath'- Griffin 
Robert Darke 
Eliakim Elmore 
Eben''- Seely 
Samuel Wells 
Peleg Havens 
Thomas Hart 



£ 


sh. 


I 





2 





4 








8 


4 


4 


6 





4 








8 


I 





I 








10 


2 





I 


12 





8 


2 








10 


I 


10 


2 





3 





I 


10 





16 


4 





4 





I 


16 


I 





I 





I 





3 






4 days work 

2000 feet of Clap-boards 

2000 feet of boards 

6 days work 

1000 feet of boards 

3 days work 
6 days work 

300 feet of timber, 20 

days work 
6 days work 
6 days work 
1000 Nails 
200 feet of timber, 2000 

nails, & 6 days work 
1000 feet of boards, 6 

days work 

4 days work. 

1000 feet of Hemlock 

boards, 3 days. 
6 days work 



payable in blacksmith's 
work 



payable in grain. 
6£ payable in grain, 
payable in grain 
payable in grain 
3 £ payable in grain 
3 days labour 
3 payable in grain. 



1793] 



OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 



63 



Original Subscription for 
Hamilton Oneida Academy, 

Names of Subscribers 
Ira Foot 

Joseph Boynton 

Eben"- Butler 



Tim'^^ Pond, Jr. 
Broome & Piatt 
Stephen Barret 

Seth Roberts 
Amos Kellogg 
Oliver Tuttle 
Elias Dewey 
Aaron Kellogg 
Thomas Whitcomb 
James Smith, Jun''' 
Barnabas Pond 

Elijah Blodget 
Henry Holly 
Seely Finch 
Josiah Bradner 
Joseph Stanton 
Pomroy Hull 
Rufus Stanton 
Amos Blair 
Oliver Phelps 
Samuel Tuttle 



Peter Smith 
Tho^- R. Gold 



THE Establishment 
1 792-1 793 — Concluded: 



OF 



£ 


sh. 


d. 


2 











10 





2 








I 








I 








3 








I 








I 








I 








I 








I 








I 








I 








I 








I 











8 








8 








8 








8 





10 








10 








5 








168 


8 






1000 feet of boards & 20 
days work 

2 days in surveying 
land. 

200 feet timber, 100 feet 
boards, 500 feet clap- 
boards 

1000 feet of boards. 

300 feet 7x9 glass. 

40/ value in pine boards, 
first rate. 

Six Days of work 

& six days work 

& six days work 
& six days work 
one thousant ft. of 

Boards, 
one m shingles. 
& six days work. 
& six days work. 

& 3 days work 
& three days work 
& 3 days work. 



1000 feet of Clapboards, 
to be delivered at the 
Mill. 



64 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 



Petition for a Charter for the Academy. 

To the Regents of the University of 
the State of New York. 
Whereas a Plan for establishing a school or Seminary of 
Learning in Whitestown, in the County of Herkimer, con- 
tiguous to the Oneida Nation of Indians, for the mutual 
Benefit of the young and flourishing settlements of Emigrants 
to said County and the various Tribes of Confederate Indians 
has been proposed by the Rev^ Samuel Kirkland and received 
the approbation and Patronage of many of the most respect- 
able Characters of the United States, and is also encouraged 
and patronized by the Society in Scotland for propagating 
Christian Knowledge ; and whereas very considerable contribu- 
tions have already been made, and there are strong assurances 
of further very liberal donations towards the Funds of 
said Institution, provided a Charter of Incorporation can be 
obtained; and whereas the great distance from any well-regu- 
lated Seminary of Learning clearly evinces the propriety and 
importance of having one established at the place above pro- 
posed, as the youth of that part of the Country must grow up 
in a state of gloomy ignorance, or their education must be 
attended with very great expense ; we the Subscribers being 
so many of the Founders or Benefactors of the aforesaid 
Institution as have contributed more than one half in value 
of the real and personal property and estate collected and 
appropriated for the use and benefit thereof, do hereby respect- 
fully pray that the said school or Seminary of Learning may 
be incorporated and be subject to the visitation of the Regents 
of the University of this State, and that the Honbl Alexander 
Hamilton, Esquire, Secretary of the Treasury of the United 
States, the Hon^l Egbert Benson, Esquire, the Honbl John 
Lansing, Esquire, the Rev^ Dan Bradley, Eli Bristoll, Erastus 
Clark, James Dean, Moses Foot, Thomas R. Gold, Sewal 
Hopkins, Michael Myers, Jonas Piatt, Jedidah Sanger, Revd 
John Sergeant, Timothy Tuttle, and Samuel Wells be ap- 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 65 

pointed the first Trustees of the said Seminary, with power 
to increase the number of Trustees to twenty one, whenever 
a majority of the Persons above named shall upon due notice 
think proper to elect suitable Persons to compleat the said 
number of twenty one Trustees; and that they and their suc- 
cessors in office may be known and distinguished by the name 
or stile of the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy. In 
witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals 
the 1 2th day of November, 1792. 

Saml Kirkland 
Jonas Piatt 
Eli Bristoll 
Erastus Clark 
Joel Bristoll 
Sewal Hopkins 
James Dean 
Michael Myers 

New York ss. Be it remembered that on this twenty sixth 
day of January in the year one thousand seven hundred and 
ninety three Before me James M. Hughes, Master in Chancery, 
Personally came Michael Myers Esquire and the Revd Samuel 
Kirkland two of the subscribers to the foregoing Petition who 
being duly sworn did depose and say that they together with 
the several other Petitioners whose names are also subscribed 
thereto have subscribed more than one half in value of the real 
and personal property and estate appropriated for the use and 
benefit of the Seminary of Learning in the said Petition 
mentioned. 

James M. Hughes. 
Michael Myers 
Saml Kirkland 
5 



66 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

Samuel Kirkland to Col. Wadsworth. 

New York Jany 24th 1793. 
Sir, 

I have the honor to acquaint you, that after my arrival here 
I had a conference with several of the Regents of the Univer- 
sity of the State of New York upon the subject of the Oneida 
Academy, Your generous donation of the Encyclopaedia was 
received with the highest satisfaction. Tomorrow evening the 
Regents are have a meeting, when the petition for an incor- 
poration will be presented. I here met with Mr. Phelps, and 
took the liberty of reminding him of the generous donation 
which he had heretofore offered to make to said seminary. 
After reflecting upon the grant he liad made of 8000 acres in 
Ontario County for the express purpose of establishing an 
Academy there, he thought that ten pounds would be sufficient 
for him. He accordingly signed his name for that sum. 

From that active public spirit and true magnanimity which 
have uniformly made so conspicuous a part of your character, 
the Trustees of the Academy may be assured of the continu- 
ance of your patronage to a design truly laudable and friendly 
to the cause of humanity. 

For the present, in their behalf please accept of my sincere 
thanks, and believe me, in great truth and sincerity with senti- 
ments of high esteem to be 

Your obedt humble Serv* 

S. Kirkland. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of January 29, 1793. 

The respective applications of Samuel Kirkland and seven 

other persons praying that Alexander Hamilton and fifteen 

others for that purpose nominated may be incorporated by 

the name and stile of " the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 67 

Academy " at Whites Town in the County of Herkermer; and 
of Joseph Yates and twenty three other persons praying that 
Abram Yates Junior and twenty three other persons nominated 
in the said appHcation may be incorporated by the stile of 
" The Trustees of the Academy of the Town of Schenectady " 
in the County of Albany, Subject Nevertheless to be changed 
into the name of the most liberal benefactor; were severally 
read and Committed to the Vice Chancellor Genl. Clarkson 
and Mr Verplanck. 

The Vice Chancellor from the Committee to whom the above 
applications were referred reported that it appeared to the 
said Committee by due proof on oath that the subscribers to 
the said applications are contributors and benefactors for more 
than one half in value of the real and personal estate collected 
or appropriated for the use and benefit of the said academies 
respectively and that the said Committee are of opinion that 
the said Academies should be severally incorporated the first 
by the stile of " The Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy " 
and the latter by the stile of " The Trustees of the Academy 
of the Town of Schenectady ". 

The Board resolved itself into a Committee of the whole 
to take the above report into consideration and after some 
time spent thereon the Chancellor re-assumed the chair and 
Genl. Schuyler from the said Committee reported that they 
had agreed to the report of the Sub-Committee Whereupon 

Resolved that the Board agree to the said Report. 
Ordered that the Secretary prepare instruments in the usual 
form for incorporating the said Alexander Hamilton and the 
said fifteen other persons for that purpose named and the said 
Abram Yates and the said twenty three other persons named in 
the said application, and that the Chancellor affix the seal of the 
University to the said Instruments. 



68 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

Charter of Hamilton Oneida Academy 
January 31, 1793 

The Regents of the University of the State of New 
York to all to whom these presents shall or may come Greet- 
ing. Whereas Samuel Kirkland, Jonas Piatt, Eli Bristoll, 
Erastus Clark, Joel Bristoll, Sewall Hopkins, James Dean and 
Michael Myers by an Instrument in writing under their hands 
and seals bearing date the twelfth day of November in the 
Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety two 
after stating among other things that they are founders and 
benefactors of a certain Academy in Whitestown contiguous 
to the Oneida Nation of Indians in the County of Herkimer 
in the State aforesaid who have contributed more than one 
half in Value of the real and personal property and Estate col- 
lected or appropriated for the use and benefit of the said 
Academy did make application to us the said Regents that the 
said Academy might be incorporated and become subject to 
the visitation of us and our successors and that we would 
signify our approbation that Alexander Hamilton, John Lans- 
ing, Egbert Benson, Dan Bradley, Eli Bristoll, Erastus Clark, 
James Dean, Moses Foot, Thomas R. Gold, Sewal Hopkins, 
Michael Myers, Jonas Piatt, Jedediah Sanger, John Sergeant, 
Timothy Tuttle and Samuel Wells, the Trustees named in the 
said application and their successors might be a Body corpo- 
rate and politic by the name and style of The Trustees of 
Hamilton Oneida Academy in the Town and County afore- 
said Nozv know ye that we the said Regents having enquired 
into the allegations contained in the Instrument in writing 
aforesaid and found the same to be true and conceiving the 
said Academy calculated for the promotion of Literature Do 
by these presents pursuant to the Statute in such case made 
and provided signify our approbation on the incorporation of 
the said Alexander Hamilton, John Lansing, Egbert Benson, 
Dan Bradley, Eli Bristoll, Erastus Clark, James Dean, Moses 
Foot, Thomas R. Gold, Sewal Hopkins, Michael Myers, Jonas 
Piatt, Jedediah Sanger, John Sergeant, Timothy Tuttle and 
Samuel Wells the Trustees of the said Academv so as afore- 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 69 

said named by the Founders thereof by the name of the 
Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy, being the name 
mentioned in and by the said request in writing. In Testi- 
mony whereof we have caused our common Seal to be here- 
unto affixed the thirty first day of January in the Seventeenth 
Year of American Independence. Witness George Clinton 
Esquire Chancellor of the University. 

Geo. Clinton, Chancellor 
N. Lawrence, 

Secretary 

Address of the Oneida Indians 
to the Regents of the University of the State of New York. 

Oneida, April 2y, 1793. 
Fathers and Brethren, 

Attend and open your ears to our words which we address 
to you. We have been informed by our Father Mr. Kirk- 
land and others that you have laid a permanent foundation 
for a great School for the education and instruction of youth 
near us; that you have placed it between us and our Brothers 
the White People to the eastward; and that you propose our 
children shall be benefitted by it, as well as theirs. We thank 
you that you have thought of us on this occasion, and that 
you appear so willing to exert yourselves to expel the dark 
clouds of ignorance which have so long obscured the minds of 
the Indian Nations, and to introduce the light of knowledge 
among us. It is our hearts, not our tongues alone, which 
speak the language of gratitude and thankfulness to you for 
your benevolent attention. We are poor; our minds are 
involved in ignorance and darkness; it may be some time before 
we shall be able to emerge from this gloomy state. We there- 
fore beg your patience, that you will not be easily discouraged 
in your friendly exertions; but that you will make a full and 
fair experiment how far the minds of Indians are capable of 
cultivation and improvement. Possibly you may have the 
satisfaction to find, on trial, that the minds of Indians may 



70 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

become as enlightened as the minds of the White People, and 
that all the difference between us and them consists only in 
the colour of the skin. 

Fathers and Brothers, this is all we have to say. 

John X Skanondo 
\Vm X Kayendarongwan 
Lowdwick X Kaghsaweda 
Signed in the presence John X Tekanajasore 

of James Dean, ap- Paul X Otshetagon 

pointed by the Board Cornelius X Aghyongo 

of Trustees to inform Joseph X Kanaghsatirhon 

the Oneidas of the erec- Peter X Kanadarok 

tion of the Hamilton John X Shojijowane 

Oneida Academy Thomas X Aronhokta 

To the Honble Regents W™ X Shoratowane 

of the University Moses X Awethare 

State of New York. Mattunis X Asisat 

W"i X Shotegonwasere 
Jacob Reed, alias Atsiaktatige 
John X Jourdan 

From the Proceedings of the Trustees, 
Hamilton Oneida Academy. 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Hamilton Oneida 
Academy at the house of Seth Roberts in the Town of Paris 
on the twenty fourth day of April A. D. 1793 — 

Resolved 

That the sincere thanks of this Board be presented to the 
Rev"<i Samuel Kirkland for his benevolent exertions in found- 
ing Hamilton Oneida Academy, and his liberal donations 
towards the funds of that Institution; and in consideration 
of his liberality and benevolence the Clerk is directed to enter 
satisfaction on the minutes for the sum of ten pounds sub- 
scribed by Mr. Kirkland on the Subscription List for erecting 
said Academy: and that the Clerk present Mr. Kirkland with a 
copy of this Resolution. 

A true copy. Test : Erastus Clark, Clerk. 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 71 

Extracts from Samuel Kirkland's Journal. 

From The Missionary Magazine, Edinburgh, 1796, pages 253-259. 

October 11, 1793. Six Indians came with several chiefs, to 
confer upon the subject of the Academy. 

December 31. Last evening sat in council with a number, 
upon the subject of the Academy, and the children they were 
about to send. Some had murmured, and complained that it 
was not a free school. I endeavored to convince them of the 
propriety and necessity of selecting the specified number, agree- 
ably to the original plan for the first trial, and that no per- 
sons were better able to do this, than Mr Dean, Mr Caulkings, 
and myself, to whom the Trustees had referred the selection; 
and that the Indians themselves had agreed to this, when the 
plan was proposed some years ago. I again informed them, 
that so soon as they could build near the Academy, and board 
their own children, they might send forty or fifty, or even one 
hundred. But provision was made at present for boarding 
no more than six or eight; and a proportion of them must 
be of the Seneka and Cayugo nations. They in general seemed 
to be well satisfied, and concluded to set out this afternoon. 

January i, 1794. Last night came to my house several of 
the Oneida chiefs, viz. Skenandou, Capt. John, Laurense 
Aukeand'yakhon, Kaghhelayen, Atenis, one Tuscarora chief, 
with their sons, and accompanied by many others, with some 
women and children. The whole number consisted of nine- 
teen souls. Gave them an exhortation, and closed with sing- 
ing a psalm, and prayer. This evening addressed by the 
parents of the children who were to be admitted as members 
of the school, upon the plan of Indian education, which had 
been proposed to the Society in Scotland, their Board in Bos- 
ton, also to the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States, 
with many other individuals, and received their approbation. 
After several short addresses, and replies made relative to 
the subject, Laurense Aukeand'yakhon requested leave to speak 
on the occasion, in his own behalf, more particularly as he 



72 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

considered his situation to be singular. All were instantly 
attentive. He began as follows : 

" Father, and brothers here present, hear me ; open a candid 
ear. My principal business here was to introduce my son 
Isaac to this great school. Now, upon the introduction, and 
giving up of my son, it is proper you should know what my 
views are. Father, you know it is more than three years since 
the instruction of my son has been a subject of frequent con- 
versation between us. He is a lad we both love. But soon 
after you had digested the plan of Indian education, and it 
was agreed upon that my son should be one of the number, 
the unhappy division took place in our nation, betwixt the 
Sachems and the warriors. . . . 

" Now, father, attend, and all here present. I said my busi- 
ness here was the introduction of my son. What are my 
views? What are my wishes with respect to my son? Do I 
wish him to become a great man of the world? No. There 
is not one such wish now existing in my heart, that I am con- 
scious of. The strongest wish of my heart, and the warmest 
affection of my soul, in regard to my son Isaac, is this, that 
he may attain the knowledge and love of God, that he may 
possess true goodness in his heart, that he may get into that 
path, which will certainly lead him to a happy life in the next 
world, even to live with the great and holy God, and Jesus 
Christ his Son, and all good people. This, father, is my wish 
concerning my son, tho' expressed in few words. Should my 
son obtain this, I expect he will some day or other lift up his 
voice to my poor Nation. . , ." 

The foregoing address was so lengthy, and delivered with 
so much pathos, and altogether unexpected, and from a per- 
son who had so long exempted himself from their public 
councils, that it silenced in a great measure all the other 
speakers, and seemed to absorb all their ideas. Captain John 
is a much more graceful and eloquent speaker than Auke- 
and'yakhon, but his modesty forbid him to enlarge upon the 
subject at this time. He only added that the education of 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 73 

his son Moses, and two other of his sons, had long been deeply 
impressed upon his heart, from the knowledge he had acquired 
of a civilized people. He would therefore only add, that the 
sum of his wish, respecting his son, was to have him fitted 
for usefulness, in every point of view ; and to have him become 
a good man, in the full extent of the expression. . . . 

Thursday, January 2. I delivered the following address to 
the chiefs and warriors of the Oneidas and Tuscaroras present. 

" My children, attend, both Sachems and warriors ; open a 
candid ear. 

" Various have been our mutual congratulations, upon the 
return of another new year. ... I expressed last even- 
ing my great satisfaction with the address of my son Auke- 
and'yakhon. It has been like a cordial to me; and it seemed 
to diffuse joy through every one present. It is my prayer 
that God may graciously enlighten him, strengthen and con- 
firm him more and more, in the true religion, and make him 
a blessing to the Nation. May he live to see good come of his 
favourite son Isaac, who is now become a member of the 
school. ... I have also expressed my satisfaction with 
the address and sentiments of Captain John, Skenandou, 
Atenis, Lieutenant Cusock, and others. What more shall I 
say? You know my disposition, and every wish of my heart 
respecting your children. What lies in my power, I shall do 
for them. I shall not fail to counsel, advise, reprove, and 
exhort them, as occasion offers, and their situation requires. 

"As we have enjoyed a free, unrestrained, and friendly 
intercourse, I would take this occasion to animadvert upon 
several oblique and ungenerous reflections, that were cast upon 
me by some individuals, while at the village. I don't mean, 
my children, that it interrupt our present agreeable interview; 
nor do I wish you to make any formal reply, until I meet you 
in full council in your own town. Hear me, therefore, my 
children, with patience and candour. To you, indeed, I may 
open my mind with the utmost freedom, 

" The establishment of this school in your vicinity, has been 



74 DOCUMENTAF^Y HISTORY [1793 

an object of my constant attention since the projecting the 
plan ; it being, in my opinion, the last expedient to be tried, 
and the last effort to be made, together with agriculture, and 
the gradual introduction of the civil arts, for your national 
happiness and prosperity. 

" Some of you are well acquainted with the exertions I 
have made to effect it. Here let me enumerate several 
instances. In the first place, I have given to the school or 
Academy three hundred acres of land, never to be alienated, 
but remain the sole property of the Academy, and to be 
improved by the Trustees towards the support of an able and 
skilful instructor. This is one eighth part of all the landed 
property I possess. In addition to this, I have taken three 
long and expensive journies to bring about its establishment ; 
one to Boston, when accompanied by Captain John, and two 
journies to New York and Philadelphia. These journies were 
performed at my own private expence, and without the least 
charge to you, or any other person. They cost me (exclusive 
of the losses I unavoidably sustained by my absence from 
my family) upwards of 170 dollars; for which I never asked, 
nor do I ever expect, any recompence ; unless I am rewarded 
by the promotion of your happiness, and seeing good come 
to your children. I also undertook the long and most fatiguing 
tour to the Senekas country, the winter before last, with a 
principal view to lay a foundation for your rising and future 
happiness. My sufferings in that journey were almost every- 
thing, short of death, which some of you can witness, till I 
arrived in Philadelphia. . . . 

The Trustees have been collecting materials for a building, 
to accommodate the number of Indian youth proposed: and 
more if desired. This is a work of time. The small house 
the school now occupies was built by only two persons, besides 
myself, and for your present convenience. I am not one of 
the Trustees of the Academy. For various reasons, which 
I have heretofore mentioned to some of you, I refused to be 
one of their board. Nevertheless, I shall attend to its interest, 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 75 

and seek its prosperity, with as much engagedness as if I 
belonged to their board. Where, then, have I been negHgent, 
as to my duty, in forwarding this school? Your ungenerous 
and ungrateful reflections are groundless, and only the fruit 
of a party-spirit, which even some of your chiefs have 
acknowledged. 

" I have received, in some instances, the same treatment, 
tho' dressed in a different garb, from envious and unprincipled 
white people, who have suggested that I have acted from selfish 
interested motives. Others, and some of the first characters 
in the state, bring a very different charge against me, rela- 
tive to this matter. They have checked me, and kindly 
reproved me, for giving so much as I have. They say that 
I have given more than I ought to have done, consistent to 
the duty I owe to my family ; that justice has a prior claim to 
charity. This, my children, is my situation. Am I to be 
pitied, or blamed? After all, be assured, none of these things 
move me ; nor will they divert me from the object upon which 
I originally set out, and in the accomplishment of which I 
consider your national happiness to be involved. As to the 
purity of my motives, in regard to the school, I have long 
since referred that to my Maker, and merciful Redeemer; and 
there I endeavour to refer them every day. 

Petition of the Trustees of the Academy 

To the Revd Doctor Thacher, Secretary to the Hon^' 

and Revd Board of Commissioners for Propagating 

Christian Knowledge among the Indians. The Petition of 

the Subscribers, Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy, 

Respectfully represents 

That the diffusion of Christian knowledge among the natives 
of the Land, and the cultivation of the untutored savage mind, 
was an object early embraced by our benevolent Forefathers, 
and diligently pursued by their successors as opportunity pre- 
sented from the earliest periods to the present time. In fur- 
therance of the same beneficent purpose an Academy hath 
been recently incorporated in the western part of this state, 



76 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1793 

agreeably to a plan proposed by the Rev^ Mr Kirkland, your 
worthy Missionary; embracing for its object, the education of 
a specified number of Indian youth from each of the five 
Confederate Nations, as well as those of the adjacent New 
England settlements. 

We have the pleasure to inform you, that the school is now 
opened in the vicinity of Oneida and contiguous to the English 
settlement of Whitestown; a number of Indian youth have 
been introduced in a formal but pleasing and grateful manner 
by their respective parents. Great care has been taken in 
selecting such Indian Lads as are of the most promising parts, 
best habits and principal families. 

This Institution it is conceived will be introductive of the 
most beneficial effects, in meliorating the savage disposition 
and dispelling those prejudices which too naturally arise 
against the present occupants of an extensive luxuriant coun- 
try; which tradition informs the credulous Indian was given 
to his beloved forefathers by the beneficent Creator of all 
things, and of which he is too prone to believe them to have 
been unjustly despoiled. 

To allay these prejudices and counteract the unceasing prac- 
tices of a formidable nation occupying our western frontier 
throughout the Indian Department is an object highly inter- 
esting to every well wisher to this Country. 

The period presaged by the Honbl Board (whom we now 
address) in a former representation on the present subject to 
the Legislature of Massachusetts has now arrived, in which a 
League of the numerous tribes of savages in the West is 
attempted to be formed by a dangerous enemy, to be improved 
as an engine against the United States. 

Under these circumstances, in addition to the encourage- 
ments given us from the report of your Committee in Sep- 
tember 1792, the subscribers have thought proper to address 
themselves to the Hon^l Board ; disclosing the many difficulties 
and embarrassments of the above object in this infant coun- 



1793] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 77_ 

try; earnestly recommending the above benevolent Institution 
to their patronage ; praying that out of the Funds under their 
direction they will be pleased to appropriate for the Education 
of Indian Youth such sum annually as to them shall seem meet 
and proper; a just and accurate account of the disposal of 
the same, or any similar benefaction, shall be rendered to the 
Board of Commissioners by our President or Clerk whenever 
required. 

The Honbl and Rev^ Board, in thus concurring in the prose- 
cution of the above laudable design, will as your Petitioners 
conceive carry into execution the object of our ancestors in 
their charitable association for the benefit of the natives of the 
country, advance the political interests of the U. S., at the 
present critical period in the Indian Department ; open a wide 
and permanent door for the more extensive diffusion of the 
precepts of our most holy religion, and in so doing, mitigate 
the inevitable calamities of human life and better the condi- 
tion of man. 

For many interesting particulars respecting the present dis- 
position of the Indians, we beg leave to refer the Honbl Board 
to the Revd M^ Kirkland, whom we expect to be the bearer 
of this. The Communications of the Hon^l Board you will 
please to direct to the Rev^ Dan Bradley, ( Whitestown, Herki- 
mer County, State of New York) President of the Trustees of 
Hamilton Oneida Academy. 

Erastus Clark 
James Dean 
Jonas Piatt 
T. R. Gold 
Moses Foot 
Sewal Hopkins 
Timothy Tuttle 
Herkimer County 
State of N. York 
Jany 2^ 1794 



78 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1794 

John Sergeant to Peter Thaciier. 

New Stockbridge, Jany lo, 1794. 
Revd Sir: 

I lately saw the Rev^ M^ Kirkland who informed me that 
he was about soon to set out for Boston. He presented me 
a petition to the Society from the Trustees of Hamilton Acad- 
emy, myself being one, desired me to sign it. But as I dif- 
fered from the worthy Gentleman in sentiment in some respects 
with regard to the education of Indian youth at this Acad- 
emy, I could not sign the petition, at least without a better and 
more full understanding the whole plan of proceeding respect- 
ing the whole business. Mr. Kirkland then wished me to state 
my objections in writing. I agreed to write and give my 
opinion respecting the education of Indian youth, and the 
methods which I think most likely to give the savages a favor- 
able idea of the blessings of a civilized life. Will therefore 
now observe that it has been found by experience to give 
Indians more learning than they can obtain from common 
schools has been almost entirely lost. Many of those who 
have had much laid out upon them in English schools, acad- 
emies, etc., when returning to their respective tribes have been 
more savage than any of their nation. I have therefore been 
of opinion that the best method to teach Indian youth would 
be to send religious young men into their towns and set up 
schools ; that these Masters, by supporting a good govern- 
ment, frequent lectures upon morality, and setting a good 
example himself before both children and their parents, would 
have the most likely tendency to give them a favorable idea 
of religion and virtue. An Indian assistant who understood 
the English language might be of particular service. But all 
this will not bring them to the practice of industry and the 
arts of a civilized life. I would therefore propose to encourage 
the Indians in raising flax and wool, which may be done by 
premiums. I would then set up spinning schools for their 
females, by which they would soon realize the benefit of their 



1794] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 79 

labour. All the tribes of the Six Nations could easily be per- 
suaded to believe in the necessity of turning their attention to 
some other way of getting their living than by hunting, because 
their game will soon be extinct. It has been lamented that 
all the means that have hitherto been tried, have not proved 
successful to bring the Indian tribes off from a savage to a 
civilized life. But I would observe that this method never 
has been adopted. 

Now as to the Academy tliat is so happily established in 
the neighborhood, I cannot think that it will ever be of much 
advantage towards civilizing the tribes of the Six Nations. 
But as a seat of learning for English youth I sincerely wish it 
might have the patronage of every well-wisher to learning and 
useful knowledge, and I think it may be of particular advan- 
tege to these young and flourishing settlements. But so far as 
it is connected with the education of Indians, I have thought 
that one or two of the most promising youth out of the dif- 
ferent villages of the Onondagos, Cayogas, Senecas, and Tus- 
caroras, where they have no established schools, might be 
taught here to read, write, and understand the English lan- 
guage, to fit them for schoolmasters, interpreters, or assistants 
to English schoolmasters. I would further propose that all 
the moneys given by benevolent people for the promotion of 
learning and civilization among the natives in this part of the 
country should be kept in a fund by itself, and laid out by the 
Trustees in schooling, boarding, and when found necessary 
in clothing those Indian youth to fit them for the above men- 
tioned purpose, but after this object is answered then the 
monies to be improved in some way to civilize them in their 
villages. It is easy to calculate that the expense of five or 
six youth at the Academy would support a Master in an 
Indian town, which would be of vastly more advantage towards 
the promotion of useful knowledge among the Indians than 
the education of five youth at the Academy. There is one 
thing further I would observe in the petition to the Society. 
It is proposed to send for a number of youths from the Senecas 



80 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1794 

with a political view. It will no doubt be an object in the 
present situation of affairs to cultivate the friendship of the 
Six Nations, the Senecas in particular; but the most likely 
way to effect this, and who ought to be at the expense of it, 
I leave to better judges. 

Where there are established schools in Indian towns, I would 
not take any children, at least until they have obtained all the 
knowledge they can get in said schools. And if there appears 
a likely genius, who bids fair for more extensive usefulness to 
his tribe in teaching a school etc., let him be supported at the 
Academy to fit him for the above-mentioned purpose. 

I have now given my opinion on the subject of the best 
methods to promote the arts and sciences of a civilized life 
among the natives of this country, and feel happy in this, that 
the measures adopted by Government for the civilization of 
the Six Nations exactly agree with my idea of the subject. 

You will please to communicate this to the Revd and Honbl 
Society. 

I remain, Rev^ Sir, your most obliged 

humble Servant 

John Sergeant. 
Revd Docf Thacher. 

[Endorsed] A Copy of a Letter sent to Docti" Thacher, 
to be communicated to the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida 
Academy. 

Ebenezer Caulkins to Peter Thacher. 

Paris 15th January 1794. 
Rev. Sir. 

I have written you twice since I was at Boston; the last 
time I wrote I sent you my Journal, drew a Bill for £30 Ster- 
ling, and informed you that it was not possible for me to 
teach the school at Oneida through the Winter, and that I 
should therefore devote the time to study and making prepa- 
rations to resume teaching the school in the spring. I left 
Oneida the 9th of December last, and the Trustees of Hamil- 



1794] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 81 

ton Oneida Academy applying to me to teach their school 
through the present Winter, I engaged to teach twenty-five 
white children for a small sum on condition that they should 
allow me to take into the school as many Indian Children, on 
account of the Society, as should be convenient. The Trus- 
tees are to board six or eight on their own account, I have 
agreed to board my interpreter and give him something more 
on my account, until I hear from the Board ; some other Indian 
boys I expect will attend so as to make up forty in the whole. 
It is proposed to provide a house for an Indian family and let 
them board a number on account of the Indians. The Indian 
boys now in the school learn very fast; and I hope to send 
you a specimen of their improvement next Spring which will 
do honor to them and the Institution which supports them. 

I desire that you would write me by Mr. Kirkland and let 
me know how you approve of my proceedings, and what 
further encouragement you have obtained for me from the 
Society, and you will oblige, Revd. Sir, 

Your devoted humbl Serv* 

Ebenezer Caulkins. 
Rev. Peter Thacher, D.D. 

John Kemp to Samuel Kirkland. 
Revd dear Sir 

Your letter of the 15th February 1793 came to my hands 
only upon the 6th of November last. I sincerely regret the 
cause of your long silence, and sympathize with you under 
the painful feelings, which the inflammation in your Eye must 
have occasioned. But still, tho' disabled from this cause from 
writing with your own hand, it excited surprize that you did 
not employ one of your sons or some other person, as your 
amanuensis, both to transcribe your Journal and also to corre- 
spond with us. 

The long delay of your answer to my inquiries respecting 
Moor's Indian School was matter of sincere regret to the 



82 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1794 

Society ; and now that an answer has come, I am sorry to say 
that it is far less full and explicit, than my Letter of which I 
had preserved a copy demanded. It is very possible that 
motives of delicacy and prudence may have restrained your 
pen, in your Letter upon tliat subject ; and it is also possible 
that the further information which you promised with your 
Journals which are wanting, may be on their way to me. 
Meantime situated as We are with respect to the fund col- 
lected for Moor's Indian School, We have been laid under the 
necessity to apply to our Board at Boston for such authentic 
and judicial Information upon the subject of my quaeries 
to you, as may warrand our future precedent, vizt either to 
pay the money to that Institution if its original purposes are 
still promoted, (which however from all the information We 
have received both from you and others, We have no reason 
to believe is the case,) or to devote it to some other institu- 
tion which has the same general object in view. We find our- 
selves without the aid of this fund unable to carry on the Plan 
of Indian Education which you suggested however much it 
meets with our approbation, or to give to Mr. Calkin that 
encouragement, which has been represented to us as due to 
his talents and zeal. Indeed We are still left very much in 
doubt whether any efforts however ably or zealously conducted 
will have effect in any considerable degree to change the char- 
acter of the Indian Tribes, with respect either to Religion or 
Civilization. Some melancholy representations have been 
given to us lately, with respect to those Indians for whom most 
labour and expence have been bestowed, even those among 
whom Mr. Sergeant and you have long laboured, which seem 
to be but too well authenticated; and which have greatly 
damped our hopes of future success. Meantime we wish to 
have from you a fair representation of the number of souls in 
general among whom you labour, of the progress of Civiliza- 
tion and the Gospel among them, of the number whom you can 
consider as instructed in the principles of the Gospel, and of 
those who seem to be influenced by serious impressions of its 
power. 



1794] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 83 

We wish to know whether any considerable number of your 
people have deserted their old habits of roving and idleness ; 
and of intemperance, when the means of indulging it occurs; 
and whether they have addicted themselves to the arts of 
industry, so as to procure a decent livelihood for themselves 
and families. We also beg to know whether the change that 
takes place from the rude and savage state to the arts of civili- 
zation and industry has not an unhappy effect on the health 
of the Indians, and whether it is true, as has been strongly 
asserted to us, that they decline so fast in number, that there 
is reason to apprehend a speedy extinction of the race. 

We are very well pleased to receive both from your Brother 
Mr. Sergeant and you, an account of your ministerial labours, 
and specimens of the manner in which you conduct them. But 
we wish you both to direct your attention to those great and 
leading points which may serve to give us just ideas of the 
general effects. 

I sincerely hope and pray that the state of your health may 
permit you to give an answer as speedily as possible to this 
Communication ; and that neither I nor the Board of Directors 
may again have reason to regret so long a silence. With my 
best wishes for your comfort, and the success of your labours 
in the service of our common Lord, I remain, Rev^ dear Sir, 
Your affectionate Brother 
and humble Servant, 

Jo : Kemp. 
Edin. 5th Feby. 1794. 
Revd Mr Kirkland. 

P. S. Notwithstanding the date of the within Letter no 
opportunity occurred of sending it until now that I am 
informed of a Vessel ready to sail from Leith when the wind 
shall permit. 

As yet we have received no further Communications from 
you. 

J. K. 



84 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1794 

Proceedings at the Laying of the Corner Stone of 
Hamilton Oneida Academy. 

From the Utica Patriot and Patrol, July, 1794 

Paris, July ist, 1794. 

This day at eleven o'clock A. M., the first corner stone of 
" Hamilton Oneida Academy " was laid by the honorable the 
Baron de Steuben, in presence of the Reverend Samuel Kirk- 
land, the Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, Col. North, Maj. 
Williamson, Shanondo, the first chief of the Oneida nation, a 
number of the trustees of said academy, and a numerous 
body of spectators. Shanondo appeared much delighted and 
affected. The ceremony was preceded by a prayer well adapted 
to the occasion, by Mr. Kirkland, after which the Baron made 
the following 

ADDRESS 

" To the Trustees of the Institution, Friends and Fellow 
Citizens : The object for which we are now assembled is the 
erection of an academy for the propagation of useful knowl- 
edge. In this enlightened age it will be deemed unnecessary 
to explain to you how closely institutions of this kind are 
connected with the true felicity of a nation. The necessaries 
of life, its superfluities, riches, and even liberty itself, become 
so many curses, if the enjoyment of them is not limited by 
wisdom — wisdom, which leads us in the paths of virtue, and 
directs our actions not only to the promotion of our own 
happiness, but to the welfare of all mankind. For the acquire- 
ment of this wisdom are seminaries of learning instituted. 
And here, my fellow citizens, let us stop for a moment, and 
viewing our situation, feel with honest pride the happiness 
which we in preference to other nations enjoy. Among the 
ancients, or among the moderns, where shall we look for a 
comparison? It was not till after ages of barbarism had 
passed that Athens, or Rome, the mistress of the world, erected 
a temple to Minerva or Apollo. Where among the modern 
nations of Europe shall we find an example of a wilderness 



1794] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 85 

in the short space of a few years converted to a garden, and 
the first exertion of its inhabitants directed to the extension 
of knowledge and the happiness of their fellow men? Scarcely 
has the plow traced the first furrow for necessary subsistence 
— scarcely has the first tree fallen by the stroke of the ax, 
when a portion of this subsistence, when this very tree, is set 
apart to erect a temple dedicated to the best interests of the 
rising generation, to the happiness of thousands yet unborn. 
Yes, my friends, the people who dread famine less than igno- 
rance, who respect the laws, and whose time is employed in 
benefiting their country, by adding to its resources, must be 
happy and respected. Amongst the first laws of the State of 
New York was that for appointing a Board of Regents for 
the University, under whose direction schools and seminaries 
of learning were erected, and liberal provision has been made 
for carrying the object of their appointment into effect. 

" For erecting the building which is to be placed on this spot, 
you, gentlemen, and other worthy members of the community, 
by a free and liberal subscription provided funds. It remained 
to the Regents to incorporate, and to give you such pecuniary 
assistance as was in their power, and to me the honorable 
office is committed of laying the corner stone of this building, 
a task I shall perform with a sincere wish that you may con- 
template this edifice, not only as a means of public felicity, 
but as a temple in which your virtuous and patriotic action may 
be preserved to future ages. 

" By your charter this edifice is called The Hamilton Oneida 
Academy. It bears the name of a patriot on whose merit and 
virtues an orator would find an ample field for the exertion 
of all his powers ; for me to attempt to draw his character 
would be too bold. To an Appelles it belongs to draw the 
picture of an Alexander, and we must leave to the Demosthenes 
and Ciceros, the future offspring of this institution, to pro- 
nounce its eulogium." 

The Baron as one of the Regents of the University, and a 
guardian of the literature of the State, presented the charter 



86 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1794 

to the Trustees, remarking to them that by its acceptance they 
became pledged that the institution should not languish for 
want of their greatest exertion. 

The Trustees in a short reply expressed their cordial thanks 
to the Baron for his particular attention to this infant Semi- 
nary, their full confidence in his assurances of his future friend- 
ship, their resolution to exert their utmost abilities to promote 
the interest of the institution, and their ardent wishes that 
their mutual endeavors might be extensively useful to the new 
settlements and the cause of literature in general. 

To which the Baron with a heart too full for utterance 
answered : " Gentlemen : I shall always remember that I 
have laid the corner stone of this Academy — it will ever be 
I dear to me." 

Loan for the Academy. 

\Miereas it has become necessary in consequence of the 
expences incurred in erecting Hamilton Oneida Academy to 
make a loan of four hundred dollars to defray the present 
expences, and whereas the trustees of said academy have 
appointed Jedediah Sanger and Erastus Clark Esquires a Com- 
mittee to effect said loan. Now therefore to enable the said 
Committee to procure said sum of money, I do hereby engage 
and promise to become responsible for and secure the payment 
of the said sum of money or any part thereof, to such person 
as shall be disposed to loan the same — as witness my hand 
and seal this 15th day of August 1794. 

Saml Kirkland(Seal) 
Paris August 15th 1794 

In presence of 
Solomon Kellogg 
Eli BristoU 

The note given for the money mentioned in this Instrument 
signed by Jedediah Sanger and Erastus Clark as a Committee 
for the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy I engage to 
deliver to Joseph Kirkland July 13, 1797. 

Ai Breese. 



1794] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 87 

Ebenezer Caulkins to Peter Thacher. 

From the original in Dartmouth College Library 

Paris Clinton Society 4th June 1794. 
Rev. Sir. 

I am very glad to hear that the Board approved 
of my conduct in leaving Oneida and taking charge of this 
Academy school last winter, although I could not see that 
they could find cause to censure my conduct. After I received 
your letter I engaged to tarry here till November if the Board 
should not determine otherwise. The school met with an 
unfortunate interruption about two months ago by the school 
house's being burned, in which I lost many valuable books 
and writings, besides many of the books and other things 
which were sent from the Commissioners at Boston to the 
Indian School, which I had locked up in my desk in the school- 
house. But the house was rebuilt and the school in it again 
in a little more than three weeks after it was burnt. There 
were but four Indian boys at the school last Winter, and but 
one of them has attended since the house was burned, for they 
went home and have not yet returned. The one who now 
attends is about eight years old; a bright little lad who 
improves very well. The others were older and made good 
improvement while they stayed. 

I went to Oneida and spent a few days there after the 
schoolhouse was burned, saw my former school together, heard 
them read, and examined their improvement under Reed's 
instruction, who has taught them a little this Spring, which 
has prevented the children from losing ground in their read- 
ing, writing, etc. but not in their morals or behaviour, for 
he has neither religion nor morals, and good breeding he 
knows more of than he is inclined to practice; however, if 
he would do as well as he might, or as well as he used to do 
for a day or two at a time in my school when I was obliged 
to leave it with him, he would do very well and teach a good 
school. 



88 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1794 

I find that the Indians are many of them very sorry that 
I left them and wish to have me return, but they say that they 
fear I never will. I have indeed a feeling for them and would 
willingly return to keep school among them again if my situa- 
tion could be rendered more comfortable than it was before; 
and I think it might be in one respect if no more, for I have 
accomplished my wishes in getting the infamous Schuyler 
removed, or very near accomplished them; he is now under 
warning by authority from government, and must go off 
within a month, or be gotten off otherwise. 

I went to see the parents of the boys who were out here 
to School last winter, and the parents of several other boys 
whom we mean to have out here to the School as soon as we 
can get them here ; they expressed a willingness, and some of 
them a desire, to have their children come to the School, and 
said that they would bring them out within a short time ; but 
they have not come yet, and I fear that they will not unless 
something more be done about it. I think the Commissioners 
will not be satisfied to have me continue here unless they are 
here; and I tell the Trustees of the Academy that they must 
take some measures to get them here immediately, or I shall 
return to Oneida and school them there ; for there are six or 
seven of those little lads whom we have selected for this School 
who are very promising little fellows of more than ordinary 
parts, and I am so fond of instructing them that I do not like 
to be without them. The white children also like to have them 
here, and are very fond of their improving with them. 

I have about twenty-five or six white children in my School. 
This is the number to which the School is restricted on account 
of taking in the Indian youth and giving them a good chance 
of improvement. ... 

I am. Rev. Sir, with great esteem. 

Your obedient humble servant 

Ebenezer Caulkins 

Rev. Peter Thacher, DD. 



1795] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 89 

Stephen West to Peter Thacher, 

Stockbridge, 28th Jany 1795. 
Revd Sir, 

Mr. Kirkland has acquainted me very particularly with the 
nature and object of the literary institution on the borders of 
Oneida. What benefit may finally accrue from it to the 
Indians, it is impossible for us to foresee. For my own part, 
I have but little hope of any very great good to that poor 
people, from all the exertions which are made to promote the 
knowledge of divine truth amongst them. There cannot, how- 
ever, be a just reason for relaxing our endeavours, in a case 
of such unspeakable importance as that of christianizing the 
Indians. It belongs to us to use all the means which may be 
in our power. The event must be left with God. 

That Hamilton Academy may be of great advantage to the 
new settlements in that part of the country, cannot be doubted. 
We may hope, also, that it may prove useful in promoting 
knowledge and civilization among the Indians. In these views, 
as far as it may be consistent with the duties of your Board, 
I hope it may be patronized by the gentlemen who compose it. 

You will. Sir, excuse my freedom in writing you on this 
subject, 

And believe me to be, with Respect and Esteem, 
Your Obedient Servt and Brother, 

Stephen West 

Revd. Dr. Thacher 

Samuel Kirkland to Stephen Van Rensselaer. 

Albany 24th Feb^y. 1795. 
Sir, 

Permit me to observe to you, that the difficulties, attending 
the collection of subscriptions already made to the Hamilton 
Oneida Academy, and procuring others till the next season, 
induced the Trustees of said Seminary to apply to you for a 



90 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1795 

small loan, which you was pleased to grant, Coll Sanger and 
myself becoming joint security for same. In order to com- 
plete their Building, the Trustees have since proposed to me, 
to convey the donation I have made to them, with a mort- 
gage, giving them the Equity of Redemption, that I might 
thereby be able to procure them a thousand or fifteen hundred 
dollars. Could you, Sir, conveniently loan them, or me on 
their behalf, the sum of ten or twelve hundred dollars for 
the term of one year, I will mortgage to you three hundred 
acres of land, including the Academy plat or lot of ground 
on which the Academy is erected. The Building has already 
cost them upwards of two thousand dollars. The land only, 
would be valued at sixteen or eighteen hundred dollars. 

Pity the Institution should be retarded for want of some 
friend to give it a lift at the present juncture; as few, if any 
are established upon more liberal and humane principles, and 
better situated to be a mean of diffusing useful knowledge, 
and enlarging the bounds of human happiness, and aiding the 
reign of virtue. 

I wish to hear from you upon the subject by the first 
conveyance. 

With sentiments of high respect and esteem, I am, S^". 
Your obedt huml Serv*. 

Saml Kirkland 
Stephen Van Rensselaer, Esqr. 

Deed of Samuel Kirkland to the Trustees of Hamilton 
Oneida Academy. 

From the records in the office of the County Clerk of Oneida County; 
Deeds, Book II, page 304. 

Among the Kirkland Papers in the College Library is the rough draft 
of a deed, undated, but earlier than 1704, conveying to the Trustees of the 
Academy the first and fourth of the five tracts described in the recorded 
deed. In the draft, there are many interlineations, and several verbal diff^er- 
ences from the text here printed, particularly in the introductory portion. 

The Trustees mortgaged tracts three and four to Erastus Clark, Jonas 
Piatt, and Thomas R. Gold, August 15, 1795, for seven hundred dollars. 

A serious consideration of the Importance of Education 
and an earlv cultivation of the mind, with the situation of the 



1795] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 91 

western frontier settlements of the State of New York, exten- 
sive and flourishing, yet destitute of any well regulated semi- 
nary of learning, have induced me to contribute a portion of 
that Property wherewith my Heavenly Benefactor hath blessed 
me toward laying the foundation of and supporting Hamilton 
Oneida Academy, in the Town of Paris, in the County of 
Herkimer, and contiguous to the Oneida Nation of Indians, 
for the mutual Benefit of the young flourishing settlements in 
said County and the various tribes of Confederate Indians, 
earnestly wishing the Institution may grow and flourish, that 
the advantages of it may be permanent and extensive, and 
that under the smiles of the God of Wisdom it may prove an 
eminent mean of diffusing useful knowledge, enlargeing the 
bounds of human happiness, and aiding the reign of virtue 
and the Kingdom of the Blessed Redeemer. Know all men 
by these Presents, that I, Samuel Kirkland, of the County of 
Herkimer, Missionary to the Five Nations of the Indians, 
for the causes already mentioned and the purposes and uses 
hereafter expressed, have given, granted, aliened, and con- 
veyed, and by these Presents do give, grant, alien, and convey 
unto the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida x^cademy, to wit : the 
Honbl Alexander Hamilton, late Secretary of the Treasury of 
the United States, Dan Bradley, Eli Bristoll, Erastus Clark, 
James Dean, Moses Foot, Thomas R. Gold, Sewal Hopkins, 
Michael Myers, Jonas Piatt, Jedediah Sanger, John Sergeant, 
Timothy Tuttle, Samuel Wells, Asahel S. Norton, and Joel 
Bradley, and to their successors in said office forever. All the 
right, title, and interest I have in and to certain tracts, pieces, 
or parcels of land lying west of the Line of Property (so 
called) in said Town of Paris, and hereafter mentioned and 
described, viz : One certain tract lying near said Line of 
Property, beginning at a stake ninety-seven rods west of said 
Line on the north side of the road leading to Stockbridge ; 
thence running westerly forty-six rods ; thence at right angles 
north ten degrees east forty-three rods ; thence at right angles 



92 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1795 

east ten degrees south forty-six rods ; thence forty-three rods 
to the place of beginning, containing twelve acres and fifty- 
eight rods ; this is designed for the ground plot of the Academy 
and its various and other necessary buildings, viz : a house 
for the Preceptor's accommodation, an Inn, kitchen and flower 
gardens, and Common.* No part of the above described land 
is to be alienated, but ever remain the property of the Academy. 
Also another small tract of land lying westerly of the above 
described land and adjoining the same so as to extend said 
Academy plot twenty-four rods further westward, containing 
six acres and twenty-two rods suitable for meadows and till- 
age; which is to be for the use of the Preceptor. Also one 
other tract of land beginning at the place where the south line 
of George W. Kirkland's land crosses the main road leading 
from the Academy plot to Brothertown and about the distance 
of forty rods from the Academy plot; thence running along 
said south line three quarters of a mile ; thence at right angles 
southwardly fifty rods; thence eastwardly at right angles until 
a line at right angles with the course of the road shall intersect 
the place of beginning; thence to the place of beginning; con- 
taining seventy-six acres and thirty rods, the western fifty 
acres of which tract is forever to be reserved for a wood lot 
for the use of the Academy. Also another certain tract or lot 
of land lying in the southwest part of my Patent, beginning 
at the southwest corner thereof, at a beech stake marked three 
sides with a blaze and three notches under, and on the east 
side with seventeen hundred eighty-nine, and a large beech 
tree standing south thirty-five one-half degrees east eight 
links, marked on the north side seventeen hundred eighty-nine ; 
thence runninjr north on the line of the Oneida Reservation 



* The rough draft of the deed inserts the following: " 149 feet and Yi to 
be appropriated as part of the road or highway on the south side of said 
plot ; then in the center from north to south 99 feet for the purpose of a 
public road. 132 feet at the south end of the western division of the plot 
to be appropriated for the purpose of an Inn, but ever to remain the 
property of the Academy, and to be rented by the Trustees for the benefit 
of the Academy." 



1795] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 93 

one hundred and twenty-seven rods; thence at right angles 
due east half a mile; thence south at right angles seventy- 
three rods to my south line ; thence along said line to the place 
of beginning; containing one hundred acres. Also one other 
lot of land lying on my west line bounded north on a lot of 
land sold by me to Andrew Warner and others ; south on land 
sold to Jonathan Boynton ; east on the road leading to Brother- 
town ; west on the line of the Oneida Reservation ; containing 
one hundred and twenty-five acres. To Have and to Hold 
the above granted pieces of land to them and to their suc- 
cessors in said office of Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy 
for ever, to the uses hereafter mentioned, to wit : the above 
described premises hereby granted and conveyed, excepting 
the Academy plot and the land to be reserved for a wood lot, 
shall be leased out or improved on such terms and in such way 
as said Trustees shall judge will be most beneficial, and the 
whole of the rents, profits, issues and proceeds shall be forever 
laid out and expended and appropriated toward the support 
of the Principal Instructor of the Academy. The whole of 
said several parcels of land above granted and conveyed to be 
forever unalienable excepting by lease as above said and except- 
ing as is hereafter excepted. And I do hereby authorize and 
empower the Trustees of said Academy and their successors 
in said office once to mortgage said several tracts of land 
exclusive and independent of any restrictions to the contrary 
above mentioned, or to mortgage any one or more of said 
tracts at one time, and any one or more of the other of said 
tracts at another time, so that the whole may become mort- 
gaged to any person or persons or body corporate as security 
for such sums of money as they or their successors may bor- 
row to pay off the present debts of said Trustees as such, and 
to complete the Academy which is now unfinished. And I do 
hereby covenant for myself, my heirs, executors and adminis- 
trators, with said Trustees and their successors and with such 
person or persons or such body corporate to whom said lands 
shall be mortgaged in pursuance of the power above given, 



94 DOCUMKXrARV HISTORY [1796 

and with their heirs, that at the ensealing of these presents 
1 am well seized of said several tracts of land herehv granted 
in my own right in fee simple and without incumhrance. and 
that myself and heirs will forever warrant the same to them 
respectively. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my 
hand and seal the eighth day of April in the year of our Lord 
one thousand seven hundred and ninety-tive. 

Saml Kirkland(L. S.) 
In Presence of 

George W. Kirkland. 

Kbenezer Caulking. 

Herkimer County, ss : — 

Be it Remembered, that on the ninth day of April, in the 
year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety-tive, 
personally appeared before me Hugh White, Esquire, one of 
the judges of the Court of Common Pleas for the County 
aforesaid, George W. Kirkland, one of the subscribing wit- 
nesses to the within deed, and being duly sworn on the Holy 
Evangelists maketh oath and saith that he saw the within 
named Samuel Kirkland sign, seal, and deliver the within 
instrument as his voluntary deed in the presence of himself 
and of Ebenezer Caulking, the other subscribing witness, who 
did subscribe as a witness in the presence of said George, and 
I having examined the same and tinding no material erasure 
or interlineations therein except as noted, do allow the same 
to be recorded. 

Hugh White. 
Recorded the 23d day of May, 1795. 

Jonas Piatt. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of Eebruary 24, 1706. 

The board resolved itself into a Committee of the whole on 
the report of the sub-committee appointed to prepare the annual 



1797] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 95 

report and after some time spent thereon, the Vice-Chancellor 
resumed the Chair and Mr. Schuyler from the said Committee 
reported that with some amenchnents they had agreed to the 
said report and that as agreed to it is in the words following, 
to wit, 

The Regents of the University respectfully submit to the 
Legislature the following report concerning the progress of 
literature in the State. 

The Trustees of the Academy of Hamilton Oneida in the 
County of Herkimer have erected the frame of a building for 
an Academy, which will require a considerable sum of money 
to complete. There is a small schoolroom, half a mile from 
the Academy, in which scholars have been formerly taught, 
but no Teacher has been employed, nor school kept since Sep- 
tember 1794. The funds for an Institution here, consist of 
425 Acres of Land in the neighborhood of the Academy, 
chiefly uncultivated, and 400 Dollars on a subscription not 
collected. An incumbrance of 1000 dollars has been laid on 
the land by the Trustees for the purpose of raising the frame 
of the building. It was judged by the visiting Committee to 
be inexpedient to apply any part of the money assigned to this 
Academy. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 6, 1797. 

Mr. Benson from the Committee appointed to draft the 
annual Report to the Legislature made a Report which was 
read, whereupon 

The Board resolved itself into a Committee of the whole 
to take the same into Consideration and after some time spent 
therein the Chancellor reassumed the Chair and Mr. Schuyler 
from the said Committee reported that the Committee had 
gone through the same made some amendments and had agreed 
to it as amended in the Words following:. . . . 



96 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1798 

Hamilton Oneida Academy is in a worse Situation than it 
was the preceding year; the Building is covered, but there is 
no Prospect it will be further completed ; the Funds being 
wholly expended & the Property already taken in Execution 
to satisfy Debts still due. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 5, 1798. 

Mr. Ellison from the Committee appointed to prepare the 
annual Report to the Legislature, delivered to the Board the 
Draft of a Report which was read & approved. . . . 

Hamilton Oneida Academy. The Trustees in a Letter to 
the Regents represent " That about four hundred and sixteen 
Acres of good land were given as a Fund for the support of 
the institution ; that they built the Academ.y on a large scale 
in dependence on the promises of liberal aid from different 
quarters; that being disappointed in these sanguine expecta- 
tions, that they were able only to erect the Frame and partly 
enclose it in doing which they had incumbered nearly one half 
of the farm by a Mortgage ; that a number of Gentlemen of 
property and respectability in the neighborhood, have asso- 
ciated and determined to assist the Trustees in carrying the 
work on to completion, and that they have now before them 
pleasing prospects, and doubt not of having shortly a respect- 
able Seminary in that growing country." , . . 

Samuel Kirkland to John Thornton Kirkland 
President of Harvard College, 1810-1827. 

Paris, 5th December, 1798. 
My dear Son — 

. . . As you have from time to time expressed so much 
concern for the interest of the family, I will assign some causes 
for my present financial embarrassments. In the first place, I 
sustained considerable loss in personal estate in the late war. 



1798] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 97 

2d. I have always kept an open generous house, and from my 
public character and connection with the Indians have been 
exposed to much company and great expence. That I have 
been liberal towards the education of my children, you can 
testify. At the first turn of the times — the depreciating of 
our currency, and the sudden rise of labour and the neces- 
saries of life — my salary ceased, when many others had it 
not only continued but enlarged. Moreover the ceasing of my 
salary just at that juncture and at the time of my sickness, 
was more disadvantageous to me than twice its sum or value 
at another time. 3d. My long sickness, with the necessary 
and unavoidable expence attending it, including the almost 
total derangement my farming business sustained during that 
period (in the estimation of my judicious neighbours) could 
not be less than 2000 dollars. During this period, moreover, 
being unable to attend to my worldly affairs, I met with several 
losses by bad debts and failures. 4thly. The money I advanced 
and hired for the Trustees of the H. O. Academy amounted 
to a little more than 1 100 dollars, in the outset. Interest, cost 
of suits, journies, executions and the like have increased the 
principal to nearly 1700 dollars. For a part of this I am still 
indebted to you. And that the Academy might progress and 
attain the important ends of its Institution, I gave the Trustees 
a full and complete discharge of all demands upon them. In 
addition to this, and over and above the 325 acres of land I 
gave to the Trustees, when a part of them and some gentlemen 
of the first character in the County, associated and covenanted 
to complete the building, (dividing it into twenty shares) were 
unwilling to proceed unless I subscribed a 20th part — which 
I did cheerfully and shall soon pay my proportion — and 
blessed be God, the building is so far completed as to receive 
40 or 50 scholars and will be opened in the course of two or 
three weeks by an able and worthy gentleman chosen and 
recommended for the purpose by Dr. Dwight, President of 
Yale College. He is already arrived. Perhaps you think I 
have done more than I ought to have done for this Institution, 
7 



98 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1798 

considering the infancy of the settlement of this Town and its 
vicinity; that I ought to liave learned to be just before I 
became generous. This may be true. But the flattering 
prospects, and many encouragements given to promote the 
Institution when the Plan was first proposed, induced me to 
think I should make no farther sacrifice of property than the 
first donation, which I conceived to be my duty. Let me once 
more remark that from the encouragements I had received, 
I boarded and lodged three Indian boys for near three months ; 
and now almost four years have fed, cloathed, and schooled 
a boy of a Tuscarora Chief,* and most of the time paid for 
his education, all at my own expense, except a hat or a pair of 
mogesans given by his father. I also advanced lOO dollars 
toward repairing the Oneida mills — with some articles of 
farming utensils, for which as yet I have received no com- 
pensation. I also victualed the sick Indian Chief with his two 
and three attendants under Dr. Hopkins' care, at the request 
of the former Superintendent of Indian affairs, for near two 
months. . . . 

Your affectionate Father 

Sam^ Kirkland. 
Revd. J. T. Kirkland. 

Kirkland's Release to the Trustees of the Academy. 

Be it known that in consideration of six cents, the receipt 
whereof I do hereby acknowledge : I hereby release, exonerate, 
and discharge the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy of 
and from all Constraints, Debts, Dues and Demands either 
in Law or equity, upon condition that the sum of two thousand 
Dollars shall be applied towards inclosing and finishing the 
Building called Hamilton Oneida Academy according to a Con- 
tract agreed on by and between Thomas Hart and his Asso- 
ciates of the one part and the said Trustees of the other part. 
Witness my hand and seal in the year of Our Lord One thou- 
sand seven hundred and ninety nine. 
Samuel Kirkland. 

* Captain Cusick. 



1799] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 99 

Joel Bristoll. 

I hereby certify that the above is a true Coppy from the 
original Discharge in my hands. 

Sewall Hopkins, Clerk. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 5, 1799. 

. . . Mr. Benson from the Committee appointed to pre- 
pare the annual Report to the Legislature, delivered to the 
Board the Draft of a Report which was read & approved; and 
ordered to be engrossed authenticated in the usual manner and 
presented to the Legislature. . . . 

Hamilton Oneida Academy. 
The Trustees have represented to the Regents that they 
have completed so much of the Building as is sufficient for 
the Accommodation of a large School. They have procured 
an Instructor Mr John Niles, who has had experience in the 
Instruction of youth at Greenfield Academy in Connecticut and 
whose Recommendation from the Rev^. Dr Dwight is an 
ample Testimonial of his Virtue and of his Qualifications as 
an Instructor. The School was opened in the Academy on 
the 26th day of Dec^. last nearly twenty Scholars were ad- 
mitted and the Number was daily increasing, and there was 
Reason to believe would in a short time be respectable. . . . 

Hamilton Oneida Academy in 1799. 

From an Appendix to the Journal of Samuel Kirkland for the years 
1798-1799, dated Boston, November, 1799. The Report to which reference 
is made, is the Report of Dr. Belknap on the condition of the Oneida 
Indians and the mission, published in the Collections of the Massachusetts 
Historical Society. 

The Report speaks of the hopeless state of Hamilton Oneida 
Academy, of which I have so often written heretofore. The 



100 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1802 

event has disproved the predictions of some of the Regents of 
the University of New York, who are often cited as represent- 
ing that there is no prospect of its progressing. 

This Institution, from its origin, has been opposed by the 
ignorance, prejudice, selfishness, and envy of certain persons 
in the state of New York, tho' it is presumed that few Institu- 
tions of the kind have been estabhshed upon more Uberal and 
humane principles; and from its local circumstances, few are 
better situated to be the means of diffusing useful knowledge 
and promoting good order and government. To give its his- 
tory, the difficulties and opposition it has had to encounter, 
the many discouragements it has surmounted, would be too 
long for a place here, were I furnished with the necessary 
documents. This I hope will be given in the course of the 
ensuing years by an abler and less injured hand. It has been 
thought an object worthy of attention, even in its infant state, 
and has been visited by many gentlemen, among whom are 
the Revd Presidents of Yale College and that at Williamstown. 
Suffice it to say that the incumbrances under which it was laid 
have been in a great measure taken off, and the building partly 
finished in a neat, workmanlike manner. It is furnished with 
upwards of fifty Scholars, and two learned and respectable 
Instructors. But one Indian boy is in the School ; many have 
applied, and repeatedly, but the provision for their support 
which was calculated upon has not been made. A few hundred 
dollars annually for the support of some Indian boys is all 
that is wanting to make it answer every purpose with respect 
to the Indians that either I or anybody else ever proposed. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 26, 1802. 

. . . The Regents of the University respectfully make 

the following as their annual Report to the Legislature. . . . 

Hamilton Oneida Academy. The principal Branches of 



1803] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 101 

Education taught in this Academy are, the Latin and Greek 
Languages — Arithmetic, Geography, Enghsh Grammar & 
Surveying — It consists of fifty Scholars — there are two 
Preceptors — A commodious House is now building near the 
Academy for boarding of Scholars, which will be a means of 
increasing their numbers ; and there is no doubt considering 
the local situation of this Academy and the reputation of its 
Instructors, but that it will soon become very respectable. . . . 

The Committee appointed to prepare a Statement of the 
monies heretofore paid to the different Colleges & Academies 
of this State and an estimate of what further sums ought to 
be distributed. Report 

That the Book herewith presented contains a Statement of 
the monies that have from time to time been paid to the different 
Colleges & Academies in this State, and that in the opinion 
of the Committee there ought to be a further distribution of 
the following Sums to the Academies hereafter mentioned to 
be applied for the purchase of Books & Apparatus To wit 

Hamilton Oneida Academy $ioo 

North Salem Academy lOO 

Dutchess County Academy lOO 

and that the Trustees of said Academies account to the Board 
for the Expenditure of the Sums so to be granted to them 
respectively. . . . 

Joseph Willard to Samuel Kirkland, 

Cambridge October 20, 1803. 
Revd Sir, 

The Corporation of Harvard College have made you a grant 
of one hundred dollars, out of Indian monies in the Treasury, 
which they think is all they can do for you, at present. This 
sum, together with an equal one, which the Society for propa- 
gating the Gospel have voted you, will give you some relief 
under your difficulties, for which I heartily rejoice. The 
Corporation have also voted to support Isaac Solegwaston one 



102 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1805 

quarter at the Hamilton Oneida Academy. When the bill is 
transmitted to them, at the end of the quarter, they expect that 
it contain the several particular charges. They will also expect 
a Certificate from the Preceptor, respecting Isaac's particular 
studies and pursuits at the Academy, the progress made by 
him, and his behaviour and moral character. Should the 
prospect concerning him be very promising, and our Indian 
funds be sufficient, I think it probable that we may afford him 
some farther assistance in his education. However, I should 
advise you to look out for assistance from other quarters, as 
I can promise you nothing absolutely. 

I rejoice, Sir, at the full recovery of your health, and your 
renewed zeal in pursuing the objects of your mission. May 
the great Head of the Church animate and support you in 
the prosecution of your arduous and difficult work! And 
may he grant you success among the poor Aborigines, to whom 
you minister, adequate to your desires and the desires of all 
who wish well to the cause of Zion. 

A line from you, when you shall have opportunity to write 
to me, will be very acceptable. 

I am, Revd Sir, your sincere friend and humble Servant 

Joseph Willard. 
Revd Samuel Kirkland. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 25, 1805. 

To the Honorable the Legislature of the State of New York 
— The Regents of the University of the State of New York 
respectfully Report — . . . 

The Regents have required annual Returns from the differ- 
ent Academies according to a prescribed form — 
This has enabled them to exhibit a general return which at one 
view shows the state of all the academies that have complied 
with the regulations. That for the last year is annexed as 



1808] 



OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 



103 



part of this Report. From the representations that have been 
received it appears that most of the academies suffer for the 
want of pecuniary aid beyond what is in the power of the 
Regents to afford — 

Return of Academies in the State of New York 1804. 



Studies 

Reading & Writing 

Eng. Grammar, Cyphering etc. 
Mathem Book Keeping etc.. 

Dead Languages 

Logic, Rhetoric, Composition 

etc 

Moral Philosophy etc 

French Language 

Natural Philosophy 



Hamilton Oneida Academy. 

Funds. 

Academy Lot and House • • $3500 

26 Other Real Estate 900 

6 Personal Estate 240 

30 Library and Apparatus 462 

Annual Income 

2 From the Funds 48 

From Tuition 494 



Total number of students. . . . 
Price of Tuition per annum.. 



64 

$12 



Teachers Salaries per annum. 604 
Average Price of board per 
annum 65 



Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of April 4, 1808. 
To the Honorable the Legislature. 
The Regents of the University of the State of New York 
Respectfully report, . . . 

Return of Academies in the State of New York for 1807 
Hamilton Oneida Academy. 

Funds 

Academy House & Lot $350o 

Other Real Estate 1200 

Personal Estate 250 

Library & Apparatus 350 



Studies 




Reading & Writing 


10 


English Gramr. & Arithmc. 


84 


Maths. Book Keepg. Geogy. . 


28 


Dead Languages 


34 


Logic, Rhetoric, Compn. &c.. 


13 


Moral Philosophy 




Natural Philosophy 




French Language 


I 






Total number of students.... 


121 


Price of Tuition per an.. $8 


to $12 



Annual Income 

From the Funds 95 

From Tuition 530 

Teachers' Salaries 547 

Average price of Board per 

annum 78 



104 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1811 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of February 26, 1810. 

. . . A Petition from the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida 
Academy praying a Charter for a College was received read 
and considered. The board thereupon resolved that it is in- 
expedient to grant the prayer of the said Petition. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 29, 18 10. 

The Regents met pursuant to adjournment. . . . 

The Committee appointed to distribute the sum of twenty 
two hundred Dollars among the several academies of the State 
reported as follows — viz — ... 

Hamilton Oneida Academy $150 

Resolved that the same be approved of, and that the Treas- 
urer pay the aforesd. sums to the several Academies accordly. 



Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 4, 181 1. 

. . . A petition from the Trustees of Hamilton Academy 
and another from the Trustees of Kingston Academy — Pray- 
ing Charters investing the said Academies with the Privileges 
of Colleges were severally read and referred to Mr Kent Mr 
DeWitt and Mr Clinton. . . . 



18111 OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 105 



Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March ii, 1811. 

The Committee to whom were referred the petition of the 
Trustees of Kingston Academy and the petition of the Trus- 
tees of Hamilton Oneida Academy praying that the Regents 
would erect those Academys into Colleges Reported 

That under the Provisions in the Act instituting the Univer- 
sity no academy ought to be erected into a College until the 
state of Literature therein is so far advanced and its funds so 
far enlarged as to render it probable that it will attain the Ends 
and support the Character of a College in which all the liberal 
arts and sciences are to be cherished and taught. 

That in the opinion of the Committee no College ought to 
be established until suitable buildings have been provided and 
a fund created consisting of a Capital of at least $50,000 yield- 
ing an annual Income of $3,500. The Academies in question 
furnish no Evidence of any such requisite means and their 
petitions ought not to be granted. 

The Committee however have bestowed some Consideration 
upon the Propriety of instituting one or more Colleges within 
this State upon the supposition that the requisite funds might 
be procured. 

The literary character of the State is deeply interested in 
maintaining the reputation of its Seminaries of learning, and 
to multiply Colleges without adequate means to enable them to 
vie with other similar institutions, in the United States, would 
be to degrade their character and to be giving only another 
name to an ordinary academy. The establishment of a College 
is also imposing upon the Government the necessity of bestow- 
ing upon it a very liberal and expensive Patronage and with- 
out that patronage it would languish and not maintain a due 
reputation for usefulness and universal learning. The Com- 
mittee are therefore of opinion that Colleges are to be cau- 



106 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

tiously erected, and only when they are called for by strong 
public expediency. 

They are of opinion however that considering the great 
extent and population of this State an addition may be pru- 
dently made to the two Colleges already existing provided 
the proper means shall have been previously ascertained and 
procured. 

The Committee think it would be advisable to establish a 
College within the Western District in some proper situation 
to be determined on by the Regents and that the situation to 
be selected be one that would best and permanently accommo- 
date the Inhabitants of that district having a due regard not 
only to its present but to its future increase. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 5, 1812. 
. . . The Petition from the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida 
Academy praying that the said academy may be invested with 
collegiate powers and priviledges and the Petition from the 
Trustees of Fairfield academy praying for like powers and 
priviledges which were read at a former meeting and post- 
poned for further consideration, were referred to Mr Kent 
Mr Van Vechten and Mr Southwick ; ordered that the applica- 
tion for the Incorporation of academies, which are received 
and which may be received during the present session of the 
Board, be referred to Mr Dewitt, Mr Smith, and Mr Jenkins. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 10, 1812. 

The committee to whom were referred the application for 
a college in Oneida county and that Hamilton Oneida academy 
be erected into a college — Reported — 

That in their opinion the Prayer of the applicants ought to 
be granted. 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 107 

The report being considered, The Regents adopted the fol- 
lowing resolution. 

Resolved that the chanceller of the University be autherized 
to issue a charter establishing the said college by the name of 
" Hamilton College " whenever it shall appear satisfactorily 
to him that funds are procured for the said Institution which 
with those already provided shall amount to fifty thousand 
dollars. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of May 22, 1812. 

The following reports from the colleges and academies were 
received to wit — ... 

Hamilton Oneida Academy. . . . 

His Excellency the Chanceller reported to the Board a 
schedule of subscription for the contemplated college at Paris 
in Oneida County which being considered by the Board a satis- 
factory compliance with the resolution heretofore passed on 
that subject and Mr Chief Justice Kent having reported the 
Draft of a charter for the said college. 

Resolved that a charter issue accordingly. 

Charter of Hamilton College 

By the Regents of the University 
of the State of New York. 
Whereas the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy, in con- 
junction with many of the citizens of the Western District of 
this State, have, by their petition, made known to us, that 
they, the said applicants, were minded to found a college, by 
engrafting the same on the said Academy, at or near the scite 
of said Academy, in the Town of Paris, in the county of 
Oneida, and having signified to us, that the name thereof shall 
be " Hamilton College," and have proposed to us the twenty 



108 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

four persons, hereafter named, for the first Trustees of the 
said College; and whereas it satisfactorily appears, that funds 
are procured and provided, towards the support of said College, 
to the amount of fifty thousand dollars, and we having ap- 
proved thereof, and it appearing to us, that the funds intended 
by the said applicants, for the use of the said College, are as 
duly and sufficiently secured and vested for that purpose as is 
requisite, and that the founding of the said College can not 
be farther completed, before the said Trustees are incor- 
porated : 

Therefore, in virtue of the power in us vested by law, we 
have granted and declared, and by these presents do grant and 
declare, that a College, for the instruction and education of 
youth, in the learned languages and liberal arts and sciences, 
shall be and hereby is founded and established, in the said 
Town; that the Trustees of the said College shall always be 
twenty four in number ; and that Henry Pluntington, George 
Brayton, Morris S. Miller, Nathan Williams, James S. Kip, 
James Carnahan, Jedediah Sanger, Joseph Kirkland, John H. 
Lothrop, Thomas R. Gold, Jonas Piatt, James Eells, Asahel S. 
Norton, Ephraim Hart, William Hotchkiss, Joel Bristol, Henry 
McNiel, Peter Smith, Dirick Lansing, Jasper Hopper, Obadiah 
German, Arunah Metcalf, Simeon Ford, and Walter Fish, 
sliall be the present Trustees; and that the said Trustees and 
their successors shall be a body corporate and politic, by the 
name of " The Trustees of Hamilton College," and shall have 
perpetual succession and shall be capable to sue and be sued, 
and to purchase, take, hold, enjoy, and have lands, messuages, 
tenements, hereditaments, and real estate whatsoever, in fee 
simple, or for term of life, or lives, or years, or in any other 
manner howsoever; and also goods, chattels, books, monies, 
annuities, and all other things of what nature or kind soever, 
provided, always, the clear yearly value of such real estate do 
not exceed the sum of thirteen thousand three hundred and 
thirty three dollars and one third of a dollar lawful money 
of the United States; and also to appoint a President and 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 109 

Professors and Tutors to have immediate care of the educa- 
tion and go\ernment of the Students, who shall be sent to and 
admitted into the said College for instruction and education, 
according to such ordinances, rules, and orders, as shall be 
made by the said Trustees ; and also to appoint a Treasurer 
and Clerk, and all other needful officers and ministers, and 
assign to them their respective business and duties; and also, 
from time to time to make such ordinances, rules, and orders 
for the management and disposition of the lands and other real 
estate, and of the chattels and monies and other property at 
any time held or possessed by them, the said Trustees, for 
the use of the said College : and for the more orderly and con- 
veniently performing and executing the trusts and authorities 
hereby granted and committed to them, as they, the said 
Trustees shall deem most fit and beneficial; and also all such 
ordinances, rules, and orders, directing and appointing what 
books shall be publicly read and taught in the said College, 
and for the better government of the said College, and of the 
President, Professors, Tutors, and Students thereof, as they, 
the said Trustees, think best for the general good of the same ; 
provided that no ordinance, rule, or order, to be made by the 
said Trustees, nor shall the appointment of a President, or of 
any professor, or tutor, in the said College, nor of a treasurer 
or clerk, or any other officer or minister, have any force or 
validity, unless the same shall be agreed to by the major part 
of any thirteen or more of them, the said Trustees, convened 
and met together ; and provided farther that no such ordinance, 
rule, or order, shall be repugnant to the Laws of this State, 
or the Laws of the United States; neither shall any of them 
extend to exclude any person of any religious denomination 
whatsoever from equal liberty and advantage of education, or 
from any of the degrees, liberties, privileges, benefits, or im- 
munities of the said College, on account of his particular tenets 
in religion; and provided also that every such ordinance, rule, 
or order, whereby the punishment of expulsion, suspension, deg- 
radation, or public confession shall be inflicted on any student. 



110 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

shall be put in execution only by such major part of any thir- 
teen or more of the said Trustees ; that the President of the said 
College shall hold his office for and during his good behaviour; 
but that all professors and tutors, and every treasurer and clerk, 
and all other officers and ministers, shall hold their respective 
offices, at the will and pleasure of the said Trustees ; that there 
shall be two meetings of the said Trustees in the said Town 
in every year, on such days, and at such place, as the said 
Trustees shall by ordinances to be by them from time to time 
made in that behalf, appoint, to be denominated stated meet- 
ings ; and until the said Trustees shall have made an ordi- 
nance, appointing the days and place of such stated meetings, 
the same shall be held on the last Tuesday in May and on the 
last Tuesday in September, and in the building hitherto called 
the Academy; 

That when any special meeting of the said Trustees shall 
be deemed necessary, the Senior Trustee then residing in the 
said Town, and taking upon himself the exercise of the office, 
shall, on application for that purpose in writing, under the 
hands of any five or more of the said Trustees, appoint a 
time for such special meeting, at some convenient place in the 
said Town, and cause due notice thereof to be given, by adver- 
tising the same, in one or more of the publick news-papers, 
printed in Utica, at least twenty days before such meeting; 
and at such meeting such senior Trustee, before entering on 
any business, shall certify such notification to the Trustees 
then met; that whenever the said Trustees shall be met to- 
gether at any meeting, the senior Trustee, then present, shall 
preside at such meeting; that the seniority intended in these 
two several cases, shall be determined according to the order 
in which the said Trustees are herein named, and shall be here- 
after elected; 

That the said Trustees may, by the President of the said 
College, or any other person by them authorized and ap- 
pointed, give and grant any such degree and degrees, to all such 
persons thought by them worthy thereof, as are known to and 
usually granted by any University or college in Europe; 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 111 

That the said Trustees shall and may have a Common Seal, 
under which they shall and may pass all grants, diplomas, and 
all other writings whatsoever requisite or convenient to pass 
under such seal, and which shall be engraven in such form 
and with such devices and inscription as shall be agreed upon 
by the said Trustees, and to alter the same, at their pleasure ; 
and finally, that the said Trustees and their successors forever 
shall enjoy all the corporate rights and privileges which we are 
empowered to grant. 

In Testimony whereof we have caused our common seal to 
be affixed to these presents the twenty sixth day of May in the 
thirty sixth of the Independence of the United States, 1812. 

Daniel D. Tompkins 

Chancellor of the University 
of the State of New York 
Fran. Bloodgood, Secretary. 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 

State of New York. 

Meeting of June 4, 1812. 

. . . Resolved that the chanceller be authorized to accept 
of a surrender of the charter of the Hamilton Oneida Academy 
on his being satisfied that they have granted and conveyed all 
their estate Real and Personal to the Trustees of Hamilton 
College. . . . 

Laws of the State of New York, 1812. 

Chapter 237. 

AN ACT for the Endowment of Hamilton College, and for 

other purposes. 

Passed June 19, 18 12. 
I. Be it enacted by the People of the State of New York, 
represented in Senate and Assembly, That the comptroller of 
this state, as soon as may be after the passing of this act, 



112 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

shall, on behalf of this state, assign and transfer unto the 
trustees of Hamilton college, for the use and benefit of said 
college, and to their successors in office, bonds and mortgages 
executed to the people of this state for lands heretofore sold 
in the late Oneida reservation to the amount of fifty thousand 
dollars, including principal and interest now due thereon. 

2. And be it further enacted. That upon the payment of the 
interest due or to grow due on the said bonds and mortgages, 
at or before the expiration of one year after the same shall 
have become due, the payment of the principal shall not be 
demanded until the expiration of ten years from and after 
the passing of this act. 

3- And be it further enacted, That the charter granted to 
the college of physicians and surgeons in the city of New York, 
by the regents of the university, bearing date the fourth day 
of June instant, ht and the same is hereby ratified and con- 
firmed, any grant or charter heretofore made by the said 
regents to the said college to the contrary notwithstanding. 

The Founding of Hamilton College. 

From Some Reminiscences of the Life of Samuel Kirkland LotJirop. p. 26. 

Hamilton College was at this time a matter of great interest 
to all the best and most substantial people of that part of New 
York, but especially to the Kirkland and Lothrop families. 
It had grown out of the Oneida Academy, an institution vir- 
tually founded some fifteen or twenty years before by my 
grandfather, who had given it nearly the whole of the lands 
he had received from the Indians and the State of New York 
in attestation of his valuable and patriotic services during the 
War of the Revolution, especially in keeping the Six Nations 
neutral during that struggle. His great object was to have a 
school on the borders of civilized and savage life where the 
youth of both conditions — civilized and savage — could be 
educated together, and the latter receive especial benefit from 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 113 

intercourse with the former. But the borders would not re- 
main stationary: civilization constantly encroached; the 
Indians, though still numerous, became insignificant and un- 
important amid the rapid increase of the white population; 
and the wants of the latter seemed to demand that the Academy 
should be elevated to the rank of a college. A charter for this 
purpose was granted ; and through the Federal influences — 
which in the Kirklands, Lothrops, and other good people in 
Oneida County at that time were strong and potential — it 
was called Hamilton College, in honor of the great statesman. 
Considerable funds had been raised, and new buildings were 
to be erected; and my father, as one of the Trustees, was 
intrusted with the superintendence of these things, and for a 
year or two was much at Clinton and on College Hill, as it 
was called. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
First Meeting, July 14, 18 12. 

In pursuance of the provisions and directions contained in 
the Charter of the College, & at the request of five of the 
Trustees named in said Charter, I hereby notify Messrs Henry 
Huntington, George Brayton, Morris S. Miller, Nathan Wil- 
liams, James S. Kip, James Carnahan, Jedediah Sanger, Joseph 
Kirkland, John H. Lothrop, Thomas R. Gold, Jonas Piatt, 
James Eells, Ephraim Hart, William Hotchkiss, Joel Bristoll, 
Henry McNeil, Peter Smith, Dirck C. Lansing, Jasper Hopper, 
Obadiah German, Arunah Metcalf, Simeon Ford, and Walter 
Fish, the Trustees of the said College, named in said Charter, 
that a Meeting of the said Trustees will be holden at the house 
of Abraham W. Sedgwick, innkeeper in the village of Clinton, 
in the town of Paris, in the county of Oneida, on the 14th 
day of July next, at ten o'clock in the forenoon 

Asahel S. Norton, 

Senior Trustee, residing in 
the town of Paris. 
Dated June 19, 181 2. 
8 



114 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

The above and foregoing notification, was given by me the 
Subscriber and inserted in the news-paper printed in Utica 
intitled the " Utica Patriot " on the 23rd day of June 1812, and 
done on the apphcation of five Trustees named in the Char- 
ter of Hamilton College; the like notification was inserted in 
the " Columbian Gazette " printed in Utica. Certified this 
14th day of July 1812 

Asahel S. Norton, 

Senior Trustee, residing in 
the town of Paris. 

At a Meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton College, at the 
house of Abraham W. Sedgwick, innkeeper, in the village of 
Clinton, in the town of Paris, on the 14th day of July in the 
year of our Lord 1812, pursuant to the foregoing Notice; the 
following Members of the board were present, — viz : Henry 
Huntington, George Brayton, Morris S. Miller, Jedediah 
Sanger, Joseph Kirkland, John H. Lothrop, Thomas R. Gold, 
Jonas Piatt, Asahel S. Norton, Ephraim Hart, Joel Bristoll, 
Henry McNeil, Peter Smith, and Nathan Williams. 

Henry Huntington, being the Senior Trustee, took the chair 
as President of the said board of Trustees. Nathan Williams 
was appointed Secretary pro tem. 

On motion of a Member of the board the Charter of the 
College was read. 

On motion of Mr. Kirkland, Ordered, that a Committee 
of the members of the board be appointed, to report arrange- 
ments for carrying the objects of the Charter into execution, 
and that the President of the board appoint said Committee; 
on which Jonas Piatt, Thomas R. Gold and Joseph Kirkland 
were appointed. 

The above Committee reported the following Resolutions, 
viz. 

Resolved, that Peter Smith, Ephraim Hart, and George 
Brayton, be a committee to secure the donations, property, and 



1812] OF HAMILT ON COLLEGE 115 

funds belonging to this Corporation, with full and ample 
power and authority to apply to the Comptroller of this State, 
and receive on behalf of this board an assignment of the Bonds 
and Mortgages mentioned in the Act of the Legislature of 
this State, entitled "An Act for the endowment of Hamihon 
College," passed in June 1812. And also with full power to 
accept and receive on behalf of this Corporation, a regular 
conveyance and assignment of all the property and estate real 
and personal, now belonging to the " Trustees of Hamilton 
Oneida Academy." And also with full power and authority, 
to ask for and obtain regular conveyances and securities to this 
board for all the Land, Monies and other Property whatsoever 
subscribed by any person or persons towards the funds of 
" Hamilton College," and it shall be the duty of said Com- 
mittee to report their proceedings to this board without un- 
necessary delay. 

Resolved, that j\Ir. Piatt, Mr. Gold, and Mr. Miller, be a 
Committee on the Presidency, Officers of the College, and any 
other Officers or Agents necessary to be appointed by the 
Trustees; which Committee is required to report the proper 
duties to be attached to each of the said offices respectively, 
and the salaries or compensation to be made to the said offices. 

Resolved, that Mr. Norton, Mr. Kirkland, and Mr. Lothrop, 
be a Committee to report in relation to the duties of a 
Treasurer and Clerk and their salaries; also a code of bye- 
laws and rules for this board, and the device proper for the 
Common Seal ; also the present state and situation of the build- 
ings belonging to Hamilton Oneida Academy, and an estimate 
of the expense of putting the same in repair; Which were 
adopted by the board. 

Resolved that the Seal of " Hamilton Oneida Academy " 
be adopted as the Seal of this Corporation, until another is 
provided. 

Resolved, that the board be adjourned, to meet again on the 
2 1 St inst. at ten o'clock in the forenoon, at the place of this 



116 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

meeting; and that the Secretary notify said meeting to the 
members of the board not now present. 
Adjourned. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Second Meeting, July 2ist 1812. 

At a Meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton College, pursu- 
ant to adjournment, at the house of Abraham W. Sedgwick, 
innkeeper, in the village of Clinton, in the town of Paris, on 
the 2 1 St day of July, 18 12, the following Members of the 
board were present, viz. Henry Huntington, George Bray- 
ton, Morris S. Miller, James S. Kip, Jedediah Sanger, Joseph 
Kirkland, John H. Lothrop, Thomas R. Gold, Jonas Piatt, 
Asahel S. Norton, James Eells, Ephraim Hart, Joel Bristoll, 
Henry McNeil, Peter Smith, Dirck C. Lansing, Jasper Hop- 
per, Simeon Ford and Nathan Williams. Henry Huntington, 
President, Nathan Williams, Secretary pro tem. 

The several committees, appointed at the last meeting, were 
called on to report. 

Mr. Piatt, Mr. Gold, and Mr. Miller, one of said committees, 
reported as follows : 

The Committee, to whom was referred the subject of the 
Presidency and officers of the College, with directions to 
report as to the duties to be assigned to each of them and the 
compensation to be allowed to them respectively. Report : 

That the powers and duties to be assigned to the head of the 
College, and the salary proper to be allowed to him, will 
depend in a great degree on a previous question, to be decided 
by the Trustees ; viz. Whether the President alone shall per- 
form the higher duties of the Institution, or whether he shall 
be aided by a Provost or Vice-President of distinguished lit- 
erary attainments, who shall perform the principal labors of 
instruction and discipline? 

If the Trustees prefer the former mode; then the committee 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 117 

are of opinion, that a salary of fifteen hundred dollars per 
year, payable quarterly, together with the use of a convenient 
dwelling house, garden and out houses, should be allowed to 
the President. 

If the Trustees prefer the latter mode of organization; then 
the committee recommend, that a salary of seven hundred and 
fifty dollars per year payable quarterly be allowed to the Presi- 
dent ; and that a salary of fourteen hundred dollars per annum, 
payable quarterly, together with the use of a convenient dwell- 
ing house, garden and out houses, be allowed to the Provost 
or Vice President. 

The committee further recommend, that the following Pro- 
fessors be immediately appointed for Hamilton College, viz. 
a Professor of Chemistry and Mineralogy; a Professor of 
Surgery and Anatomy ; a Professor of the Institutes of Medi- 
cine ; and a Professor of Obstetrics : And that a Committee 
be appointed to confer with the Persons who shall be appointed 
to the said Professorships, in regard to the Chemical and Surgi- 
cal Apparatus, the necessary apartments for their accomoda- 
tion, the compensation for their services, and all other matters 
in relation to their Professorships respectively. 

The Committee further recommend, that the appointment of 
Tutors, and the regulation of their respective duties and com- 
pensation, be postponed until the next meeting of this board. 

Messrs. Norton, Kirkland, & Lothrop, another of the said 
committees, reported as follows : 

To the Board of Trustees of Hamilton College : 

The undersigned, a committee appointed by a resolution of 
the Board passed the 14th instant, on the several subjects there 
expressed report as follows : 

On the subject of the Bye-laws, necessary for the regula- 
tion of the board, the Committee have deemed it necessary 
for the present to submit for the adoption of the board only 
the following, viz. 

I. All the appointments, both of the Officers of the Col- 



118 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

lege and in filling the vacancies that may happen in this Board, 
shall be made by ballot. 

II. All committees shall be named and appointed by the 
presiding officer of the Board. 

III. Whenever any member shall propose a resolution for 
the adoption of the Board, the same shall be presented in 
writing. 

IV. The members of this Board shall be allowed nothing 
for their ordinary services; but their expences in coming to, 
attending on, and returning from the meetings of the Board 
shall be paid by the Treasurer. 

V. The Reports of all committees of the Board shall be 
made in writing. 

On that part of the Resolution, relating to a Common Seal 
for the Corporation, the following devices are submitted for 
the selection of the Board: i^t The emblematical figure of 
Wisdom or Science, Minerva, leading her votary up an emi- 
nence and pointing to the temple of Fame situated on the 
Height; Motto, Scientiae et Virtiites, Praemium Splendidum; 
in the margin of the Seal the words Collegii Hamiltonensis 
Sigillum, Fundatum MDCCCXII. 2"^ The same figure crown- 
ing one of her sons in the vestibule of the temple of Fame 
with her appropriate wreath, the words Lux et Veritas entwined 
in the wreath; same Motto, same Margin. 3i'd An appro- 
priate figure raising a veil from the vision of a nonciate, with 
the finger of her right hand resting on the book of Knowl- 
edge open, and pointing to the words Lux et Veritas writ- 
ten therein; Motto in Greek characters 'I'viuet l£ai>Ti>v\ same 
Margin. 4th Or the figure of a celestial being, raising a veil 
in the same manner, pointing to the words "l\wdt Isaurcr/' 
written in Greek characters in the open Book of Knowledge ; 
Motto, " Lege, Prodesse, et Conspici; " same Margin ; Seal to 
he 2}i inches in diameter. . . . 

On the subject of repairs immediately necessary to render 
the Academy commodious and convenient for students the 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 119 

committee further report : that after having reviewed the 
premises and taken the estimates of the proper mechanics on 
the subject, they are of opinion that the upper arched room 
at the South end of the building be finished — that two addi- 
tional stacks of chimnies be built — that all the rooms undergo 
a thorough repair, and that the same together with the Halls 
and Staircases be painted and whitewashed; that the under- 
pinning be repaired : that the staircases be removed and placed 
in the Halls running crosswise of the building, and the other 
halls be converted into closets or bed rooms to accomodate 
the rooms ; that two of the rooms be converted into one, to 
accomodate a professor of chemistry, if necessary; and that 
the whole expence to be incurred will probably amount to the 
sum of five hundred and seventy-five dollars. 

On motion of Mr. Piatt, Resolved, that Mr. Bristoll and 
Mr. Hart be a committee to examine whether any and what 
Lands, if any, are necessary for the accomodation of the Col- 
lege, with power to treat for and obtain the refusal of any 
lands which they may deem useful to the institution, & make 
report thereof to this Board. 

The Board then adjourned until 8 o'clock A. M. on 
Wednesday. 

Wednesday morning July 22nd 18 12, the Board met pur- 
suant to adjournment. 

On motion of Mr. Gold: Resolved, that Mr. Gold, Mr. 
Piatt, and Mr. Miller be a committee to procure a Seal for the 
Corporation, with the following devise and motto: The 
emblematical figure of a Celestial Being or angel, raising a 
veil from the vision of a pupil or novitiate, with the left hand, 
and the finger of the right hand resting on the book of 
Knowledge open, and pointing to the words " Lux et Veritas," 
written therein; Motto, "rmidi lEArWN"; in the margin 
" Collegii Hamiltonensis Sigilliim, Fundatum MDCCCXII." 
The size to be the diameter of two and a half inches; and 
authority is given said committee to make any unessential 
alteration in the same device. 



120 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

On the motion of Mr. Gold, Resolved, that Mr. Smith and 
Mr. Brayton be a committee to procure a College bell, of a 
proper size, and not exceeding in weight two hundred pounds. 

On motion of Mr. Piatt, Resolved, that Mr. Bristoll, Mr. 
McNeil, and Mr. Hart, be a committee to carry into effect the 
alterations and repairs in the buildings, according to the report 
of the committee thereon, and this board will provide for the 
expense thereof. And that said committee be authorized to 
make such alterations and additional repairs as they may deem 
necessary, provided the expence of such alterations and addi- 
tions shall not exceed the sum of two hundred dollars. . . . 

On motion of Mr. Kirkland, Resolved, that the board pro- 
ceed to the election of a President of the College — which was 
done accordingly; and on counting the votes it appeared that 
the Rev. Caleb Alexander was unanimously elected President 
of said College. 

A committee was then appointed to inform Mr. Alexander 
of his election. 

Said committee then reported that said information had 
been communicated to him, and in reply the Rev. Mr. Alex- 
ander presented to them the following letter of resignation, 
which was ordered to be read, viz. 

" Paris, July 22^^ 1812. 
Gentlemen — having received by your committee, your Reso- 
lution of this date, informing me that you have unanimously 
appointed me President of Hamilton College, I do hereby 
express to you my sincere thanks for the honor bestowed on 
me. After maturely considering the subject, and reflecting 
on my own situation, as also that of my family, I believe it 
my duty under existing circumstances to decline accepting the 
appointment. Allow me to say that I am your affectionate 
friend and humble servant 

C. Alexander." 
To the Trustees of Hamilton College. 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 121 

On motion of Mr. Gold, Resolved, that whereas the Rev. 
Caleb Alexander was this day appointed President of Hamil- 
ton College, and did thereupon decline accepting the said office, 
and this Board conceiveing themselves justly indebted to said 
Alexander for his great and zealous exertions in procuring 
the Qiarter and funds of the College: to the end therefore 
that due compensation may be made to him in the premises ; 
Resolved, that the Treasurer of the Board be directed to pay 
to the said Caleb Alexander the sum of one thousand five 
hundred dollars as soon as the same shall be received into the 
Treasury and within the period of six months, with interest 
from this date, and the further sum of five thousand dollars 
in five equal annual installments, to be computed from this 
day, with annual interest on the same, and that the senior 
Trustee and Clerk, on behalf of this Board, execute to the 
said Caleb Alexander a bond or obligation accordingly under 
the seal of the Corporation. 

On motion of Mr. Gold, Resolved, that Mr. Norton, Mr. 
Bristoll, and Mr. Hotchkiss be a Committee to take charge of 
and superintend the School now kept in Hamilton Oneida 
Academy, on the relinquishment thereof to the Trustees of 
Hamilton College, until the further order of this Board. 

The Rev. Caleb Alexander having declined to accept the 
Presidency, as above; 

On motion of Mr. Williams, Resolved, that the Board pro- 
ceed to the election of another person to fill that office; which 
having been done accordingly, it appeared on counting the 
ballots that the Rev. Samuel Miller, D.D., was elected the 
President of said College. 

On motion of Mr. Ford, Resolved, that Mr. Gold, Mr. Piatt, 
and Mr. Miller be a Committee to communicate to the Rev. 
Doctor Samuel Miller his appointment to the Presidency of 
Hamilton College, and to request his answer as to his accept- 
ance of the appointment. 

On motion of Mr. Piatt, Resolved, that the Board proceed 
to the election of Professors of Chemistry and Mineralogy 



122 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

and of Obstetrics, which was done accordingly. And Doctor 
Josiah Noyes was elected Professor of Chemistry and 
Mineralogy ; and Doctor W^estel Willoughby Professor of 
Obstetrics. 

On motion of Mr. Piatt. Resolved, that Mr. Norton. Mr. 
Bristoll, and Mr. McNeil be a Committee to confer with Dr. 
Josiah Noyes and Doctor Westel Willoughby in regard to the 
Chemical Apparatus, the necessary apartments for their 
accomodation, the compensation for their services, and all 
■other matters in relation to their Professorships respectively. 

The Board then adjourned to meet again on the twenty- 
fifth day of August next, at ten o'clock A. M., at the same 
place. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Third Meeting. August 25, 1812. 

At a meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton College, pursu- 
ant to adjournment, at the house of Abraham W. Sedgwick, 
in the village of Clinton, town of Paris, on the 25th day of 
August, 18 1 2, the following members of the Board were 
present, viz : Morris S. Miller, James S. Kip, Jedidiah Sanger, 
Joseph Kirkland, Thomas R. Gold, Jonas Piatt, Asahel S. 
Norton, James Eells, Ephraim Hart, Joel Bristoll, Henry 
McNeil, Peter Smith, Dirck C. Lansing, and Nathan Williams. 
Morris S. Miller, President; Nathan Williams, Secretary pro 
tem. 

On motion of Mr. Gold, Resolved, that the Committee 
appointed to communicate to the Rev^ Df Miller his election 
to the Presidency of the College, Report that they have per- 
formed that duty, and have received for answer that he 
declines the honor of the office. Therefore, on motion, 

Resolved, that this Board proceed to the election of another 
person to fill that office; which being done accordingly, it 
appeared on counting the ballots that William Johnson, 
Esquire, was elected the President of Hamilton College. 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 123 



On motion, Resolved, that Mr. Piatt, Mr. Gold, and Mr. 
Williams be a committee to communicate to the President 
elect his appointment, and to request his answer as to his 
acceptance of the same. 

On motion, Resolved, that the Board proceed to the election 
of a Professor of Theology, which was done accordingly, and 
on counting the ballots it appeared that the Rev. Asahel S. 
Norton was elected to that office. 

On motion of Mr. Gold, Resolved, that the salary of the 
President of the College be eighteen hundred dollars, together 
with the use of a house, garden, and out houses. 

On motion of Mr. Gold, Resolved, that the Grammar School 
of the late Hamilton Oneida Academy be continued by the 
Trustees of the College. 

Resolved, that the College be opened for the reception of 
Students in the ensuing Autumn, and that Mr. Norton, Mr. 
Eells, and Mr. Lothrop be a Committee to provide for open- 
ing and organizing the College and continuing the Grammar 
School; and also, in conjunction with Professors of the Col- 
lege, to examine and admit Students into a Class in the College 
for which they may be found competent. 

Resolved, that the above Committee notify the Public of 
the intention of the Board to open the College for the recep- 
tion of Students the ensuing Autumn. 

On motion. Resolved, that the Board proceed to the elec- 
tion of a Professor of the Learned Languages, which was 
done. On counting the ballots, it was found that Mr. Seth 
Norton was elected to that office. 

On motion. Resolved, that the salary of the Professor of 
Languages be seven hundred and fifty dollars, and that he 
perform the duties of a Tutor of the College until the further 
orders of this Board. 

The Committee appointed to the property and funds of the 
College, by Mr. Smith, their Chairman, made the following 
report of their proceedings to the Board, which was on motion 



124 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

accepted: viz. The Committee ai)pointed on the 14th of July 
last, of which Peter Smith is Chairman, Report in part, That 
two of its members have waited on the Comptroller of the 
State and have obtained from him assignments to the Trus- 
tees, pursuant to an Act entitled "An Act for the endowment 
of Hamilton College and for other purposes passed 19th of 
June 1812," of seventy-six several Mortgages upon lands in 
the late Oneida Reservation, on which IVIortgages agreeable 
to the Schedule herewith is due of Principal $37658.70, and of 
interest calculated up to the said 19th of June, 18 12, $12346.83, 
making in the whole $50005.53, which is $5.53 more than the 
Trustees were entitled to receive by the aforesaid Act, which 
overplus of $5.53 your Committee have transmitted to the treas- 
ury of the State. The Mortgages, with an assignment upon 
each, your Committee now delivers up to the Board. 

Your Committee suggest that it would be advisable for the 
Treasurer of this Board to obtain from the Comptroller's 
office a particular statement of the payments heretofore made 
on each Mortgage ; then by comparing the payments with the 
provisions in the several statutes in relation to " Reservation 
Mortgages " he will the more readily ascertain if any and on 
which interest is now due and collectable, and when the residue 
will be collectable. 

Your Committee, in furtherance of their duties, have 
appointed John Kirkland, Esquire, their Agent to receive from 
the respective donors to the College monies and other effects, 
as well as titles to the lands subscribed, and that he is making 
progress in the premises. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer of the Board be instructed to 
procure from the Comptroller of the State the information 
mentioned in the report of Mr. Smith this day. 

The Committee on the Chemical Apparatus, by Mr. Norton, 
their Chairman, made a Report accompanied with documents, 
which on motion were accepted and filed. 

On motion of Mr. Norton, Resolved, that the Committee 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 125 

heretofore appointed to confer with Doctor Noyes in regard 
to Chemical Apparatus be authorized to purchase the apparatus 
belonging to him and mentioned in the catalogue filed with 
the above Report by said Committee, and that the sum of two 
hundred and twenty dollars and twenty-eight cents be and the 
same is hereby appropriated for that purpose. 

On motion, Resolved, that seven hundred and fifty dollars 
be the salary of the Professor of Chymestry, and that it com- 
mence from the 25th day of August and continue until the 
further order of this Board ; and that he be requested to per- 
form the duties of a Tutor until the further order of this 
Board. 

On motion. Resolved, that the Committee appointed for the 
organization of the College report to this Board what buildings 
it may be necessary to erect the next season, and also to ascer- 
tain if a suitable dwelling house can be obtained for the use 
of the President this winter. 

On motion. Resolved, that the Committee for repairing the 
College Buildings be authorized to contract for the occupation 
of the Boarding house and the price of board for the ensuing 
year. 

On motion. Resolved, that the Treasurer be authorized to 
make a rebate or discount at the rate of ten per cent per annum 
to such of the Subscribers to the College as may anticipate 
their payments, in case their subscriptions are for money not 
on interest. 

Resolved, that the Stated Meeting of this Board on the last 
Tuesday in September next shall be held at the house of Abra- 
ham W. Sedgwick, in the village of Clinton, at ten o'clock 
A. M. 

Adjourned accordingly. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Fourth Meeting, September 28, 181 2. 

At a stated meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton College on 
the last Tuesday of September, 18 12, at the dwelling house 



126 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

of Abraham W. Secl<^wick in the villa|^e of Clinton, pursuant 
to Charter and the adjournment of the board at their last meet- 
ing, the following members of the board were present, viz. : 
Henry Huntington, Joseph Kirkland, Thomas R. Gold, Jonas 
Piatt, Asahel S. Norton, James Eells, Ephraim Hart, Joel 
Bristoll, Henry McNeil, George Brayton, Nathan Williams, 
John H. Lothrop, and Jedediah Sanger. 

Henry Huntington, president; Nathan Williams, Secretary 
pro tern. 

Mr. Norton, chairman of the committee for the organization 
of the College, reported as follows : 

The undersigned, committee appointed to provide for the 
opening and organization of the College, and for other pur- 
poses, take leave to report : That in pursuance of the duty 
assigned to them they have provided for the opening of the 
College on Thursday, the 22d day of October next ; and should 
a sufficient number of students offer themselves and be found 
qualified for admission, that the four usual Classes will then 
be organized and admitted for instruction. That examina- 
tions for admission to the several classes are appointed to be 
holden by the professors and committee elected for that pur- 
pose on the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday preceding the 
said 22d day of October. That the third Thursday in Septem- 
ber has been designated as a suitable day for the annual cele- 
bration of Commencement. And that they have agreed that 
the College year be divided into three terms of study and 
three vacations ; that one vacation take place immediately after 
Commencement and continue for four weeks; at the expira- 
tion of which a term of thirteen weeks commences, to be suc- 
ceeded by a vacation in the Winter of six weeks ; then another 
term of thirteen weeks, to be followed by a vacation of three 
weeks ; and then a term of thirteen weeks to end on the day of 
Commencement. 

To entitle the Student to admission into the Freshman 
Class, the committee have made it requisite that he shall be 
able to read, construe, and parse Virgil's Aeneid, Cicero's 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 127 

Select Orations, and the Greek Testament, and that he shall 
have learned English Grammar and Vulgar Arithmetic; but 
that less attention will be paid to the quantity read, than to the 
manner in which it has been read; and whether the Student 
shall have read less of the books prescribed or other books in 
the Latin and Greek languages will not be considered material, 
if he understands those languages sufficiently to go on with 
his class. For admission to the three higher Classes the com- 
mittee have directed that the Student shall generally be exam- 
ined in those studies in which Students are usually examined 
for admission to the same Classes in Colleges of the first stand- 
ing in the United States; and that each Student, at the time 
that he offers himself for examination, present satisfactory 
testimonials of having sustained a good moral character. 

That all Students be roomed in the College, to be located 
by the officers of the College, and that for the present not 
more than three Students be appointed to one room. That 
each Student furnish his own bed, furniture, fire-wood, and 
candles, and be responsible for his equal proportion of all 
damages done to his room (the natural and necessary wear 
thereof excepted) during his residence in the same, to be 
adjudged by an inspector appointed for that purpose ; that he 
pay at the commencement of every quarter the sum of six 
dollars for his tuition; and that he submit to such regulations 
in regard to the Commons, when established, as the Trustees 
shall direct. 

That the Grammar School be continued under the direction 
of one of the Tutors of the College hereafter to be appointed, 
and that pupils be instructed only in the preparatory studies 
requisite for admission into the Freshman Class of College ; 

And that, to carry the above arrangements into effect, it 
will be necessary to appoint two additional instructors, either 
two Tutors, or one Tutor and one Professor to perform for 
the present the duties of a Tutor. 

The committee further report that they have caused to be 
published in the two News Papers printed in Utica (with a 



128 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

request that publishers of News Papers in the Western Dis- 
trict and those friendly to the Institution elsewhere would 
insert the same in their respective papers) a Notification desig- 
nating the time the College will be open for the reception of 
Students, the days of examination for the several Classes, and 
the studies generally in which Students will be examined for 
admission ; and also of the continuation of the Grammar School 
lately taught in Hamilton Oneida Academy. 

In pursuance of another part of the duty assigned to them, 
the committee report : That it will be expedient and necessary 
during the ensuing year to erect a building, either of stone 
or brick, of about eighty feet in length, thirty-five in breadth 
and one and a half story in height as a Common Dining Hall 
for the use of the College, together with a suitable building 
of the same material and under the same roof for the accomo- 
dation of a Steward and his family; and that in the course 
of the present Autumn a convenient necessary of brick or 
stone ought to be built for the immediate relief of the Students. 
As a preliminary step to the erection of such buildings, the 
committee have taken leave to suggest to the consideration 
of the Board the propriety of having the lot of ground on 
which the public buildings are to be placed, regularly surveyed 
and laid out; a plan of the buildings hereafter to be erected 
drawn, and the scite and dimensions of each building, together 
with the materials to be used, designated; with a view to the 
eventual construction of a pile of buildings that shall unite 
elegance with convenience. 

The committee further report, that after making the neces- 
sary enquiry, they could not find a house on or near the Hill, 
in the neighborhood of the College, suitable for the residence 
of the President, and that in the village near the meeting house 
none can be calculated upon with certainty ; but that there is the 
prospect of obtaining one early in the Spring. 

Which was accepted and adopted by the board. 

On motion. Resolved, that Mr. Piatt, Mr. Lothrop, and 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 129 

Mr. Hart, be a committee to purchase any lands adjoining 
the College property, which they may deem necessary, upon 
such terms as they may approve ; and that thereupon they 
cause the College plot to be surveyed and a Map thereof to 
be made, designating thereon the scites of the College build- 
ings, the streets, alleys, and pleasure grounds, with such 
explanatory notes as to the kind and dimensions of said build- 
ings and other subjects as they may deem proper; and also 
that they cause such trees to be planted on said grounds, and 
such other improvements thereof to be made as they may deem 
useful. 

Resolved, that the committee who were directed to advertize 
the opening of the College for the reception of Students, cause 
such notice to be inserted without delay in the principal News 
Papers in the Western District, and also in the cities of New 
York and Albany. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer procure from the Comptroller's 
office a particular statement of the payments which have been 
made upon the Mortgages which have been assigned to the 
Trustees of the College. 

Resolved, that the Clerk of the board furnish the Treasurer 
with a copy of all resolutions which may be passed relating 
to the duties of his office. 

Resolved, that Mr. Seth Norton make the selection of the 
Books which have been given to the College. 

Resolved, that Mr. Norton, Mr. Lothrop, and Mr. Eells 
be a committee to consult with Professors Norton and Noyes 
as to the books proper for the several Classes to study the 
ensuing Winter; and to procure such additional apparatus as 
may be immediately necessary for the department of Professor 
Noyes. 

Resolved, that Mr. Hart, Mr. Bristoll, and Mr. McNeil be 

a building committee, and that they be authorized to explore 

the country adjacent to the lands belonging to the Corporation 

on which is contemplated to erect the public buildings, with a 

9 



130 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

view of discovering if there be any stone quarries from which 
it would be expedient to quarry stone for the pubhc build- 
ings, and if in their opinion such stone in sufficient quantity 
and of a quality suitable for that purpose be found at any 
reasonable distance, to make contracts without delay for pro- 
curing the same for the buildings to be erected during the 
ensuing year; and further, that they cause a building for a 
necessary for the College to be erected as soon as the scite 
thereof shall be designated by the committee appointed for 
that purpose. 

Resolved, that until a President be appointed who shall take 
upon himself the duties of his office, the Professors and Tutors 
of the College have the immediate care and governance of the 
Students, who shall be required to recite three times in each 
day, Sundays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays excepted, and upon 
the two latter days only twice, and that the Clerk give to the 
Senior Professor a copy of this Resolution. 

The committee appointed to communicate to William John- 
son, Esquire his appointment as President of the College, and 
to request his answer etc., Report, that they have made the 
communication, and have received for answer that he declines 
the office. Therefore on motion. Resolved that this Board 
proceed to the election of another person to fill that office. 
Which being done accordingly, it appeared on counting the 
ballots that the Rev. Doc^ Azel Backus was elected President 
of Hamilton College. 

On motion, Resolved, that Mr. Piatt, Mr. Gold, and Mr. 
Williams be a committee to communicate to the President 
elected as aforesaid his appointment, and to request his answer 
as to his acceptance. 

It being suggested by Mr. Piatt that James Carnahan, hav- 
ing removed from this State, had vacated his seat as one of 
the Trustees of Hamilton College, Resolved, therefore, that 
another person be elected in his place. Which being done, it 
appeared on counting the ballots that the Rev. Samuel F. Snow- 
den was elected a Trustee. 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 131 

On motion, Resolved, that the Board proceed to elect a Tutor 
of the College. Which being done, it appeared on counting the 
ballots that Mr. Joseph Montague was duly elected. Resolved, 
that he be allowed a salary of four hundred dollars, to be com- 
puted from this day. 

The Board then adjourned to the 28th of October next, to 
meet at this place. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Fifth Meeting. November 24th, 1812. 

. . . On motion of Mr. Kirkland, Resolved, that the 
President of the College be inaugurated on the third day of 
December next, and that he be requested to deliver on that 
day an inaugural address in English ; and that Professor Nor- 
ton be requested to deliver an address in Latin; and that the 
addresses be accompanied by such other apposite exercises 
as the committee of arrangements may deem proper ; and that 
Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Snowden, and Mr. Norton be a committee 
to make arrangements for the occasion. . . . 

Resolved, that there be erected for the use of the College a 
Dining Hall, a Kitchen, and necessary outhouses for the Stew- 
ard, and that the same, except the outhouses, be built of stone, 
and that the building committee procure the necessary materials 
and contract for building, and that the buildings be placed upon 
the ground designated by the committee who were appointed 
to lay out the grounds of the College, and that John H. Loth- 
rop be added to said building committee; and that the sum 
of two thousand five hundred dollars be appropriated to carry 
into effect this resolution. 

Resolved, that Mr. Piatt, Mr. Kirkland, and Mr. Williams 
be a committee to confer with the President and Professors in 
relation to a Code of Laws for the Government of the College, 
and that they prepare and report the same to this board. . . . 



132 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

Resolved, that Mr. Eells, Mr. Norton, and Mr. Snowden 
be a committee to confer with the President and Officers 
of the College upon the course of studies to be pursued 
by the Students of the College ; and that the President and 
Officers of the College be requested to submit a plan of studies 
to this Board ; and that until further order of this Board the 
Students pursue such studies as the f*resident and Officers shall 
direct. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer take measures to ascertain the 
value of the Lands given to this Corporation, and that he 
report the sums due on Bonds, Mortgage, Notes, and Sub- 
scriptions, when the same are payable, designating such as are 
on interest, and whether the interest is payable annually; also 
the amount of Stock belonging to the Corporation, and in what 
companies the same is holden and its present value ; also the 
amount of monies which have been or may be appropriated 
before the coming in of his report. 

Whereas it is necessary that a small addition be made to the 
College Library, for the use of the Students : therefore. 
Resolved, that the sum of one hundred dollars be appropriated 
for this purpose ; and that Mr. Piatt, Mr. Williams, and Mr. 
Kirkland be a committee to procure the same as soon as there 
shall be sufficient money in the Treasury not otherwise appro- 
priated ; and that the Treasurer pay the said sum of one hun- 
dred dollars to the committee on their order ; and that the 
said committee select the books subscribed to the funds of the 
College ; and that the committee appoint a Librarian, and regu- 
late the manner in which the books shall be drawn, until the 
further order of this Board. 

Resolved, that the purchase of four acres of land, made 
by the committee, of Job Herrick, be sanctioned by this Board, 
and that a bond be executed on behalf of this Board to the 
said Job Herrick for the sum of four hundred and fifty dol- 
lars, payable on the first day of April next, at which time 
said Herrick is to deliver possession: and also for indemnify- 



1812] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 133 

ing said Herrick and his representatives against a certain Bond 
and Mortgage executed by said Herrick to Nathaniel Richards, 
Gustavus Upson, and Najah Taylor, of the city of New York, 
for the sum of six hundred dollars, with interest, bearing date 
the 17th day of September, 18 12, and payable the 17th of 
September, 1813; and also that the Treasurer remit to said 
Job Herrick one hundred dollars in part of the money sub- 
scribed by him towards the funds of Hamilton College. . 

Resolved, that the salary of the Tutors of the College be 
fixed at five hundred dollars a year, and that Mr. Montague 
be entitled to the benefit of this resolution. 

Resolved, that the Building Committee report to this Board 
at their next meeting the fences necessary to be made the next 
Summer; also the repairs necessary to be made in the Board- 
ing house and the out houses, to fit them for the accomodation 
of the President. 

Resolved, that there be appropriated a sum not exceeding 
one hundred dollars, for the purpose of paying Doct. Noyes 
for the air-pump and apparatus ; and a further sum not exceed- 
ing two hundred and twenty dollars for the purpose of paying 
for a Seal and a Bell, to be paid to the respective committees 
appointed for these objects. . 

Resolved, that Mr. Norton, Mr. McNeil, and Mr. Lothrop 
be a committee in relation to the office of Steward, that they 
make inquiry as to a suitable person to fill that place, and that 
they report to this Board such rules and regulations in relation 
to the Steward's department as they may deem proper, and 
the time when it will be expedient for him to enter upon the 
duties of his office. 

Resolved, that Mr. Eells, Mr. Hart, and Mr. McNeil be a 
committee to confer with the Trustees of the Society whereof 
the Rev. Mr. Norton is Pastor, and to make a contract or 
arrangement with them for accomodating the Students of 
the College in their attendance on Divine worship, and that said 
committee report at the next meeting of the board. 



134 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1812 

Resolved, that the Prudential Committee be authorized and 
required to hire a suitable house for the temporary accomo- 
dation of the President and his family as early as the first day 
of February next. 

On motion, the board adjourned to meet again at this place 
on Wednesday, the 2d day of December next, at 5 o'clock 
P.M. 



THE 



jla^ws 



HAMILTON COLLEGE, 



TOWN OF PARIS, COUNTY OF ONEIDA, 



STATE OF NEW-YORK 



EXJlCTZ:i) BY THE 



BOARD OF TRUSTEES. 

utica: 
printed bt iba merrell. 

1813. 



136 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 



THE 
LAWS OF HAMILTON COLLEGE. 



CHAPTER I. 

Of the Government of the College. 

I. The Government of the College shall be vested in the 
President, Professors and Tutors, duly elected, qualified and 
Mitroduced into office, according to the Charter and rules estab- 
lished by the corporation, and shall be styled the Faculty of 
the college. 

II. The President shall have power to direct in all matters 
relating to the college ; to govern the undergraduate Students, 
and the resident Graduates, and to punish all crimes and 
ofTences, committed by them against the laws of the college, 
except in cases referred by law to the Faculty. 

III. The Professors and Tutors, severally, shall have power 
to govern the undergraduate Students, and to punish them for 
any crime, except in cases referred by law to the Faculty: 
Provided that they may not, in any case, proceed contrary to 
the advice and direction of the President. 

IV. The President, at his discretion, shall have authority 
to appoint a meeting of the Faculty. — All matters, which by 
law are referred to the Faculty, shall be brought before such 
meetings, and determined by the major part of the members 
present, whereof the president shall be always one, and con- 
curring in such determination : And when the members pres- 
ent shall be equally divided, the president shall have a casting 
vote. And in all other cases it shall be the duty of the pro- 
fessors and tutors, when requested by the president, to give 
their opinion and advice. 



18131 OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 137 



CHAPTER H. 

Of admission into the college. . , . Of the distinction of 
the classes. . . . Of resident graduates . . . and 
of the manners of the students. 
I. AFTER the first of January, 1813, no person shall be 
admitted into the freshman class till he has completed his 
fourteenth year; nor to an advanced standing, without a pro- 
portional increase of age. Candidates for admission into the 
college shall be examined, by the president, or, under his direc- 
tion, by one or more of the professors or tutors ; and no one 
shall be admitted, unless he shall be found able to read, trans- 
late and parse Cicero's select orations, Virgil, and the Greek 
Testament, and to write true Latin in prose, and shall also 
have learned the rules of vulgar arithmetic. 

n. Every candidate for admission to an advanced standing, 
shall be examined by the president, and one or more of the 
professors or tutors ; or, under the direction of the president, 
by two or more of the professors or tutors; and no such 
candidate shall be admitted to such standing, unless he shall 
be found fully qualified, in all branches of learning proper 
for the same. But no one, whether a candidate for an advanced 
standing, or coming from another college, or having been 
before dismissed from the college, shall be admitted into the 
senior class, after the end of January vacation. 

III. No candidate shall be permitted to attend on the col- 
legiate exercises, until he shall have been regularly examined 
and approved; nor until he shall have given a satisfactory bond 
to the treasurer, for the payment of his term bills. 

IV. Any student, however, who comes recommended from 
any other college, may be admitted without any pecuniary con- 
sideration, to the standing for which he shall be found quali- 
fied, on examination as before directed, for the admission of 
candidates to an advanced standing. 



138 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

V. Every candidate for admission into the college, shall pro- 
duce satisfactory evidence of a blameless life and conversation. 

VI. No student shall be admitted as a member of this col- 
lege, from any other college, unless he produce a certificate 
from the proper authority, tliat he has been subject to no col- 
lege censure, except on a hearing, the prudential committee 
shall deem it consistent with the interest of the college to admit 
him. 

VII. The senior tutor shall keep a matriculation book, in 
which shall be registered the names of all students, who, by 
their regular behavior, and attention to collegiate duties, for 
six months at least, after their admission, shall exhibit evi- 
dence satisfactory to the Faculty, of their unblemished moral 
character. And if any candidate shall fail of exhibiting such 
evidence, within a reasonable time, he shall be allowed to 
attend on the exercises of the college no longer. Each candi- 
date shall be particularly required to exhibit proof that he is 
not guilty of using profane language. All those who are 
students on probation, as well as the regular members who 
have been matriculated, shall be subject to the laws, penalties 
and discipline of the college. 

VIII. No candidate's name shall be registered, until he shall 
have subscribed the following engagement : . 

I, A. B. on condition of being admitted as a member of 
Hamilton College, promise, on my faith and honor, to observe 
all the lazvs and regulations of this college; particularly, that 
I will faithfidly avoid using profane language, gaming, and 
all indecent, disorderly behavior, and disrespectfid conduct to 
the Faculty of the same: as witness my hand, A. B. 

IX. Every student, not belonging to Paris, shall be placed 
under the guardianship of a patron, who shall be one of the 
Faculty of the college, and shall be either chosen by the parent 
or legal guardian of the student, or appointed by the president : 
and no student shall contract any debt with out a written per- 
mission from his patron, on penalty of being privately dis- 
missed. 



1813] OF HAMILTO N COLLEGE 139 

X. Masters and Bachelors of Arts, who shall signify to the 
president their purpose of residing at the college, with a view 
of pursuing literature under his direction, and under the 
government of the college, and give a sufficient bond to the 
president and fellows for the payment of their term bills, shall 
be considered as resident graduates and students of the college. 

XL The undergraduate students shall be divided into four 
distinct classes. The first year they shall be called freshmen; 
the second, sophomores; the third, junior sophisters; and the 
fourth, senior sophisters : And in order to preserve a due 
subordination among the students, the classes shall give and 
receive, in the course of their collegiate life, those tokens of 
respect and subjection, which from common and approved 
usage belong to their standing in the college. i\nd, if any 
scholar shall not comply with this law, or shall be guilty of any 
abusive speech or behavior towards his fellow-students, or 
towards any other person, he may be punished by admonition 
or otherwise, as the offence may require. 

XIL If any student, during the time of his pupilage, shall 
contract matrimony, he shall no longer be a member of the 
college. 

CHAPTER III. 

Of the religious worship and order of the College . 
and of monitors. 

I. IT shall be the duty of the Faculty, diligently to inspect 
and watch over the manners and behavior of the students, and 
in all proper methods, both by example and precept, to recom- 
mend to them a virtuous 'and blameless life, and a diligent 
attention to the public and private duties of religion. 

II. The president, or, in his absence, one of the professors, 
or one of the tutors, shall pray every morning and evening, in 
the chapel, and read a chapter, or some suitable portion of 
scripture ; unless a sermon or some other theological discourse 
shall be delivered. And every undergraduate student shall be 
obliged to attend, unless he can render a sufficient excuse for 
absence. 



140 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

III. The president is desired frequently to deliver, in the 
chapel, lectures or dissertations on such religious, moral, and 
other subjects, as he shall judge proper for the instruction of 
the college ; which being publicly appointed, every student shall 
attend. 

IV. Every undergraduate Student shall be obliged to be 
present at every exercise of public worship, on every Lord's 
day, and on days of public Fasting and Thanksgiving; and 
no reason of a student's absence from public worship shall 
be received as sufficient, unless, when practicable, previously 
made known to the president, or a professor, or a tutor. 

V. It is enjoined upon all the students to observe the Lord's 
day as holy and sacred to the duties of religion: and if any 
student shall profane the said day by unnecessary business, by 
diversion, or by walking abroad, or shall be absent from his 
chamber on this day, or the preceding evening, or shall thereon 
admit any other student or a stranger into his chamber ; or on 
the preceding or following evening shall make indecent noise 
or disturbance, or shall behave indecently or profanely at the 
time of public worship, or at prayers, in the chapel, he may be 
punished by admonition or otherwise, as the nature and de- 
merit of the crime shall require. 

VI. Resident graduates are required to attend prayers, 
lectures, and all other exercises of divine worship in the chapel, 
under penalty of being deprived of the privilege of the library 
for neglect : and if they shall persist in the neglect, or set 
examples of open profaneness and disregard to the Lord's 
day, and the religious order of the college, and after admoni- 
tion by the president, shall not reform, they shall be adjudged 
and declared to be no longer resident graduates, or members of 
the college, nor allowed to reside in it. 

VII. Monitors shall be appointed by the president, who shall 
be furnished with bills, in which they shall note down those 
who are absent from, come late to, or egress from, prayers 
and other public exercises in the chapel, on which the students 
are by law obliged to attend; which bills they shall deliver to 
the president, a professor, or a tutor, whenever they shall be 
required. 



18131 OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 141 



CHAPTER IV. 

Of the course of Academic Literature and Instruction in the 

College. 

I. THE Faculty shall instruct the undergraduate students 
in the three learned languages, the liberal arts and sciences, 
and the whole course of academic literature. 

II. The senior class shall be under the especial instruction of 
the president : each tutor shall take the care of, and instruct 
the particular class committed to his charge by the president : 
the professors shall deliver public lectures in the chapel, and 
private lectures and instructions to the classes and students, 
in the several branches of science which they severally profess, 
under the direction of the corporation, or of the prudential 
committee ; and where no particular direction is given by the 
corporation or the prudential committee, under the direction 
of the president. 

III. The president, with the advice of the professors and 
tutors, shall appoint all classical exercises and examinations, 
and the authors which shall be read and recited by the respec- 
tive classes, not inconsistent with the regulations of the 
trustees : And it shall be the duty of the president annually at 
the commencement to lay before the corporation the state and 
method of instruction, the authors recited, and the progress 
of literary improvement in the college. 

Each of the professors shall, at his discretion, deliver, occa- 
sionally, public lectures in the chapel. 

The lectures of the professor of chemistry, shall be delivered 
to the two elder classes, separate or together, at the discretion 
of the professors, by and with the concurrence of the president. 

The students of the classes specified are required universally 
to assemble at each Lecture, according to the direction of the 
professors; and shall by them be required to account for 
absence, and any other negligence. 



142 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

Each student shall take notes of the several heads of the 
instruction delivered at each lecture ; and shall be examined by 
the professors concerning the knowledge which he has gained 
from the preceding lecture. 

The professor of chemistry shall deliver three lectures in a 
week, until his course is completed. 

The prudential committee shall be empowered to make tem- 
porary alterations in this system, as convenience may require; 
to exist, in no instance, longer than till the next ensuing ses- 
sion of the corporation. 

FRESHMAN YEAR. 

First Term. — The first five books of Livy for a morning 
lesson. Graeca Minora, for the recitation at 1 1 o'clock, a. m. 
Arithmetic thoroughly and demonstratively, at 4 o'clock, p. m. 

Second Term. — Adam's Roman Antiquities, for the morn- 
ing recitation. Algebra at 1 1 o'clock, a. m. Homer at 4 
o'clock, p. M. 

Third Term. — Cicero de Oratore, for the morning lesson. 
The first volume of Morse's Geography, (newest edition) at 
1 1 o'clock a. m. with the best atlasses : and great attention to 
globes and maps. Homer at 5 o'clock, until four books are 
completed. 

One student is required to declaim every day before his 
tutor and class. And to declaim in the chapel before the 
faculty and all the students, as often as it shall be thought 
proper by the faculty, taking into consideration the numbers 
in the classes. 

SOPHOMORE YEAR. 

First Term. — Murray's English Grammar (octavo edition) 
for morning lesson — Euclid's Elements at 11 o'clock — 
Geography at 4 o'clock, till finished and reviewed. One com- 
position in rotation and one declamation each day through 
the Sophomore year. 

Second Term. — Horace for the morning lesson — Euclid 
at 1 1 o'clock. In Webber's Mathematics, begin with Trigo- 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 143 

nometry, and proceed to Navigation, substituting Flint's Sur- 
veying for Webber's. The recitation at 1 1 o'clock a. m. and 
4 o'clock p. M. in these studies. Elegant exercises in Greek at 
such time as may be convenient this term. 

Third Term. — What remains of Horace for the morning 
lesson — Webber, beginning with navigation and proceeding 
to Spherical Astronomy, at 1 1 o'clock. The Extracts from 
Xenophon's Cyropaedia and Anabasis, for the recitation at 5 
o'clock. 

JUNIOR YEAR. 

First Term. — Chemical and Philosophical lectures at 9 
o'clock A. M. and no morning recitation, three days each week 
— Enfield's Natural Philosophy at 1 1 o'clock a. m. four days 
in the week — Graeca Majora at 4 o'clock p. m. — Ferguson's 
Civil Society on the days there is no chemical or philosophical 
lecture — recite at 1 1 o'clock a. m. 

N. B. Students to take notes of all Lectures, and reduce 
them to writing to be examined by the Professor. 

Second Term. — Chemical & Philosophical lectures as before. 

Enfield's Philosophy as before. 

Tytler's History after Ferguson. 

Graeca Majora. 

Valpy's Elegantiae Latinae. 

Third Term. — Chemical and Philosophical lectures as 
before. 

Fluxions after Euclid is finished. 

Tytler continued. 

Tacitus after Graeca Majora. 

English composition and declamation as in the Sophomore 
Year, with the addition of Forensic Disputation, on Wednes- 
day of each week, 

SENIOR YEAR. 

Lectures on Chemistry and Natural Philosophy, as before, 
at 9 o'clock A. M. 

First Term. — Forensic Disputation, Mondays and Tues- 
days, at 4 o'clock p. M. 



144 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

Blair's Lectures on Rhetoric, Wednesdays, Thurdays and 
Fridays, 4 o'clock p. m. 

Vincent's Exposition of the Catechism on the Sabbath, at 4 
or 5 o'clock p. M. 

Second Term. — Chemistry and Natural Philosophy in lec- 
tures, as above. Disputation as above. Duncan's Loj^ic at 
4 o'clock p. M. After Duncan, Locke on the Understanding, 
with the exhibition of arguments and sentences, &c. 

Third Term. — Chemical and Philosophical lectures — 
Paley's Moral Philosophy — Disputation — Criticisms. 

Examine for degrees the 4th Wednesday of July. 

The under classes to be publicly examined twice each year, 
viz., at the expiration of the terms in May and September. 

IV. The classes shall not go to their recitation rooms, until 
after the tolling of the bell for the recitation ; and shall leave 
them immediately after the recitation is ended. 

V. If any student shall be absent from any lecture, recita- 
tion, disputation, or other classical exercises duly appointed, 
he may be admonished : — And every student, who shall be 
absent from an examination appointed by the Faculty, shall 
receive such college punishment as the nature of the offence 
may require. 

VI. There shall be two public examinations, each year ; one 
on the week preceeding May vacation ; and. the other on the 
week preceeding the commencement. 

VII. If any Student shall appear, on examination, deficient 
in those branches of knowledge, which according to the 
regular course of literature in the college he hath been pur- 
suing, it shall be the duty of the president, or his tutor, to 
admonish him of such deficiency, that he may be incited to 
apply with greater diligence to study: and if, notwithstanding, 
at the next succeeding public examination, holden after an 
interval of at least three months, he shall appear so deficient as 
to be unfit for his standing, and unable with profit and reputa- 
tion to pursue his studies with his class, he shall be dismissed 
from the college. 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 145^ 

VIIL The customary public exhibitions in the chapel, shall 
be holden under the direction of the president, at the close of 
the winter and spring terms. If any student without per- 
mission from the faculty, shall fail to perform the exercise 
assigned him, he may be sent home. 

IX. On the fourth Wednesday of July, annually, the senior- 
sophisters shall be examined, under the direction of the faculty, 
and other gentlemen of a liberal education, who may be 
present, as to their knowledge and proficiency in the learned 
languages, and liberal arts and sciences : — And being found 
well skilled in them, and the whole course of academic litera- 
ture, shall be advanced to the standing of candidates for the 
degree of bachelor of arts ; and having made all necessary 
preparations for commencement, the president may give them 
leave of absence from the college until the Friday before the 
commencement. 

X. If any member of the senior class absent himself from 
the July examination, without reasons satisfactory to the 
faculty, he shall be precluded receiving a degree with his class. 

XI. No candidate shall be permitted to exhibit on the public 
commencement, unless he present his composition for correc- 
tion, on or before the Monday preceding the July examination. 



CHAPTER V. 
Of Vacations, and of Absence from the College. 

I. THERE shall be three vacations annually. The first, 
four weeks immediately after commencement : The second, 
six weeks from the second Wednesday in January : The third, 
three weeks from the Wednesday immediately preceding the 
second Thursday in May. 

II. No undergraduate shall reside in the college, during any 
of the vacations, without the knowledge and permission of the 
president: And if any one shall transgress this law, he shall 
be fined not exceeding twenty cents for each day. 

10 



146 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

III. Immediately upon the expiration of every vacation, the 
undergraduate students shall assemble at the college: If any 
student shall voluntarily absent himself from the college with- 
out a just and reasonable excuse, when by law he ought be 
present, the faculty shall have power, at their discretion, to 
correct such disobedience by fine, not exceeding fifty cents by 
the day, during such absence, or by admonition, as the nature 
of the case may require. 



CHAPTER VI. 



Of the Location of the Students. 

I. THE president shall have authority to locate the students 
in the chambers and studies of the college; and if any student 
shall refuse to dwell in the chamber assigned to him by the 
president, he shall be dismissed from the college: and if any 
student shall remove from his own into another chamber ; or 
make up his bed for lodging in any other chamber than his 
own, he may be fined or punished in some other way, as the 
circumstances of the case may require. 

II. If any student to whom a chamber is assigned, shall be 
absent from the college beyond the time allowed him, or shall 
be vexatious to his chamber mates, or shall injure the chamber, 
or there shall be any other sufficient cause, the president may, 
at his discretion, take away a chamber from him to whom it 
is assigned, and dispose of it to another. 

III. No student shall walk abroad, or be absent from his 
chamber, (except to attend the collegiate exercises) in the 
hours of study, which shall be, from the tolling of the study 
bell, in the morning and afternoon, till the close of the succeed- 
ing recitations. 

IV. Every student, whether present or absent, shall be at 
the expense of his proportion of furniture, wood and candles, 
necessary for the chamber assigned to him. 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 147 

CHAPTER VIL 

Of College damages, and the assessment of them. 

I. WHEN any damage shall be found done, except by the 
inevitable providence of God, to any chamber or study in the 
college, the person or persons to whom such chamber or study 
is assigned and belongs, shall make good the same, unless such 
damage shall have happened while they were absent, in vaca- 
tion. And when any damage is done to any chamber or study 
in vacation, or to any other parts of the college, or the appur- 
tenances thereof at any time, the same shall be assessed upon 
all the undergraduate students, and charged in their quarter- 
bills: Provided always, if the person or persons who were 
principals or accessories in doing any such damages, shall be 
discovered, he or they shall make full satisfaction for the same ; 
and if they shall have been done intentionally by any student 
or students, they shall each be liable to a fine not exceeding 
three dollars and thirty-three cents, and to any other college 
punishment which the circumstances of the offence shall 
require. 

n. The president shall cause to be estimated all damages of 
broken glass at the end of every term, and the same to be 
assessed upon the students according to law, and charged in 
their term bills. 

in. To ascertain other damages done to the college build- 
ings and appurtenances, there shall be annually appointed at 
commencement three persons, who shall be called inspectors 
of the college, and any two of them have power to act; — 
whose duty it sliall be to inspect and estimate all damages done 
to the college, buildings and appurtenances, whenever they 
shall be required by the president : They shall also, ex officio, 
inspect and set down in writing, the state of every chamber, 
and study at the beginning and ending of every vacation, and 
likewise of the buildings and appurtenance of the college ; and 
at the end of each term and of each vacation, they shall esti- 



148 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

mate the damages done to each chamber and study, or to other 
parts of the college buildings and appurtenances during the 
preceding term or vacation, which had not before been esti- 
mated, on the special request of the president. And all esti- 
mates of damages, particularly stated, the inspectors shall 
deliver to the president in writing, with their names sub- 
scribed ; — which estimates, with a reasonable compensation 
to the inspectors for their trouble, shall be the rule by which 
the undergraduates shall be assessed and charged respectively 
by the president for damages, in the term bill, next after such 
estimates shall have been made. 

IV. All damages estimated by the inspectors of the college, 
shall by order of the president, be immediately repaired, when 
practicable ; and when in the opinion of the inspectors it shall 
be expedient, that any damages done to the college, or to any 
of the appurtenances thereof, should be repaired before an 
estimate of such damage is made, the president shall order the 
repair to be made : and provided the repair is full and com- 
plete, the actual expence shall be a rule to the inspectors in 
the estimate of the damage ; otherwise it shall be assessed 
according to their discretion. 

V. No repairs, additions or alterations shall be made in any 
chamber of the college, or in the appurtenances of any cham- 
ber, by any student or students, but at his or their own expence, 
and under the direction of the inspectors of the college, on 
penalty of a fine not exceeding three dollars and sixty-seven 
cents for each offence. 

VI. Whenever in the opinion of the inspectors of the college 
it shall be necessary that the chapel, or any of the public cham- 
bers or entries of the college, or the chambers of the students, 
or any of them, should be whitewashed, the same shall be done 
by order of the president, under the direction of the inspectors, 
or some one of them ; the expence of which shall be paid out 
of the college treasury. 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 149 

VIL The inspectors of the college shall be authorized to 
judge and determine whether the college chambers are lit for 
the reception of the students; and if on inspection of any 
chamber, it is not in their opinion fit to be inhabited, no student 
shall be obliged to reside in such chamber, until it shall be 
repaired, and judged by the inspectors fit to be inhabited. 



CHAPTER VIII. 
Of Crimes and Misdemeanors. 

I. Every student, whether a graduate or undergraduate, 
shall be subject to the laws and government of the college, 
and show, in speech and behavior, all proper tokens of rever- 
ence and obedience to the faculty of the college : And if any 
student shall transgress this law, by treating them, or any of 
them, with reviling or reproachful language; or by behaving 
contumaciously or contemptuously toward them, or by being 
guilty of any kind of contempt of their persons or authority, 
he may be punished by any censure, even to expulsion, as the 
nature and aggravations of his crime may require. 

II. If any student shall be guilty of blasphemy, robbery, 
fornication, theft, forgery, duelling, or any other crime, for 
which an infamous punishment may be inflicted by the laws 
of the state, he shall be expelled. 

III. If any student shall assault, wound, or strike the presi- 
dent, a professor, or a tutor, or shall maliciously or designedly 
break their windows or doors, he sliall be expelled. 

IV. If any student shall be guilty of fighting, striking, 
quarrelling, challenging, turbulent words or behavior, fraud, 
lying, defamation, or any such like crimes, he shall be punished 
by fine, admonition, or other college punishment, suited to the 
nature and demerit of the crime. 

V. If any student shall break open the door of another; or 
privately pick his lock with any instrument, for the first offence 



150 DOCUAIENTARY HISTORY [1813 

he shall be fined eighty cents; and for the second, fined, ad- 
monished or expelled, as the nature of the offence may deserve. 

VI. If any student shall be guilty of an injury to a fellow- 
student, or to any other person, upon complaint and proof 
thereof made to the president, he shall, with the advice of the 
professors and tutors, give judgment thereon, and order satis- 
faction to be made according to the nature of the offence or 
injury; which if any student refuse to do, he shall be publicly 
admonished: and if, after admonition, he persist in such re- 
fusal, he shall be dismissed. 

VII. The president, a professor or a tutor, shall have 
authority to break open and enter any college chamber or 
study, at all times at discretion. And if any student shall 
refuse to admit the president, or any one of the professors 
or of the tutors into his chamber or study; or to assist them 
in suppressing any disorder, or to give his evidence respecting 
any matter under examination, when in any of these cases 
required, or shall falsely declare himself ignorant of the 
matter, he may be punished by admonition, suspension, rusti- 
cation, or expulsion, as the circumstances of the crime may 
require. 

VIII. If any student without leave obtained of the presi- 
dent, or one of the professors, or of the tutors, shall go from 
the college, or beyond the place allowed him, or shall not 
return by the appointed time, he may be punished by fine, 
admonition or otherwise, according to the degree and circum- 
stances of the offence. 

IX. If any student play at hand or football in the college- 
yard, or throw any thing against the college-building or fence, 
by which they may be in danger of damage, he shall be fined 
eight cents. 

X. Every student in studying time, shall abstain from 
hallooing, singing, loud talking, playing on a musical instru- 
ment, and other noise in the college, or college yard. 

XI. If any student shall ring the college-bell, except by 
order of the president, a professor, or tutor, he shall be fined, 
or otherwise punished, as the case may require. 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 151 

Xn. If any student shall keep any kind of firearms or gun- 
powder, or shall fire any gun-powder in or near the college- 
yard, or near the dwellinghouse or the person of the president, 
a professor or a tutor, he shall be admonished, rusticated, or 
otherwise punished as the case may require. 

XIII. If any student shall play at billiards, cards or dice, 
or any other unlawful game, or at back-gammon, or at any 
game for a wager; or shall keep in his chamber, cards, or a 
back-gammon board ; or shall call for any strong drink in any 
tavern or other place within two miles of the college, he shall 
be punished for the first offence by admonition, and for any 
subsequent offence may be rusticated, suspended or sent home. 

XIV. If any student shall venture money or goods in any 
kind of lottery, or chance game, not allowed by the laws of 
the land, he shall be punished by admonition, rustication or 
expulsion, as the nature and circumstances of the case may 
require. 

XV. If any person not belonging to the college shall con- 
temptuously treat or abuse the faculty of the college ; or shall 
instigate, advise or aid any student to a refractory and stub- 
born behavior or carriage towards the laws and governors of 
the college ; or shall draw away or seduce any of the students 
into vile principles or practices, the president, a professor or 
tutor, may forbid the person so offending to enter into the 
college-yard, and also prohibit the students to hold any inter- 
course with him, which if any student shall have, after such 
prohibition, he may be admonished or otherwise punished at 
the discretion of the faculty. 

XVI. If any combination or agreement to do any unlawful 
act, or to forbear compliance with any injunction from lawful 
authority in the college, shall be entered into by under- 
graduates; or if any enormity, disorder, or act of disobedience 
shall be perpetrated by any undergraduates in consequence of 
such combination or agreement, in both or either of those cases, 
such and so many of the offenders, shall, upon due conviction, 
be punished with admonition, rustication, dismission or expul- 



152 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

sion according to the circumstances of their offences, as shall 
be judged necessary for preservation of good order in the 
college. 

XVII. In all cases when an offence is committed frequently 
or daringly, the faculty shall have power to enhance the 
punishment at their discretion : In all cases the faculty may 
accept an ingenuous public confession, in lieu of a penalty, 
except where the law requires expulsion. 

XVIII. Whenever any member of the college faculty shall 
be satisfied that any student is guilty of frequent absence from 
prayers, public worship, or any college exercises, established 
by law ; or of disorderly behavior, when present at any of 
them, or in the dining hall; or of unreasonable expensiveness 
in living or apparel, or in proper company keeping, in his room, 
or elsewhere ; or of idleness, or profane language, or profan- 
ing the Sabbath ; or that he has gone out of college limits 
without leave ; or procured, or received meals, or other enter- 
tainment, in any tavern or boardinghouse ; or frequented such 
house or houses; or that he absents himself from his room, 
after lo o'clock at night; or is frequently absent from his 
room in study hours ; or has been guilty of any loose conduct, 
or of disrespectful behavior to any officer of this college; he 
shall be admonished of his misbehavior by his instructor, or 
any other member of the faculty; and, if he continue unre- 
formed, it shall be notified to the faculty, who shall admonish 
him again, and make known his case to his parent or guardian ; 
if he continue still unreformed, he shall be sent home; and 
shall never be readmitted, except by a major A^ote of the 
faculty. 

XIX. Every student shall be answerable for all vicious, 
scandalous, and immoral conduct, during the several vacations, 
in the same manner as in term time. 

XX. Whereas the laws of the college are few and general, 
and cases may occur which are not expressly provided for by 
law : in all cases, the Faculty shall proceed according to their 
best discretion, and may punish a student -by inflicting any 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 153 

college censure, according to the nature and circumstances of 
his crime, not inconsistent with the charter of the college. 

XXL The President shall cause a bill of the fines and other 
punishments, inflicted upon the students for misdemeanors 
and crimes, to be kept for the inspection of their parents and 
guardians, whenever they shall request it ; which bill shall con- 
tain a summary account of the reasons of such fines and 
punishments. 



CHAPTER IX. 



Of the Library — Of the Museum — Of the Philosophical 
Chamber and Apparatus — Of Commons — Of College 
Dues and Quart er-B ills. 

THE president and the prudential committee shall have 
power to make regulations, until the trustees otherwise direct, 
on all matters relating to the Library, Museum, Philosophical 
Chamber and Apparatus, and Commons, and the college dues 
and quarter-bills. 



CHAPTER X. 
Of Commencement and Academical Degrees. 

I. THE Commencement shall be on the third Wednesday of 
September annually, and the candidates for the first degree 
shall attend at the college, on the Friday preceding. 

II. No student may expect the honor of the first degree, 
who hath not attended and performed the course of academical 
exercises, as appointed by law for the space of four years; 
except such as have been regularly admitted to an advanced 
standing; nor unless on the examination in July, or a Special 
examination appointed by the president, he shall have been 
approved as a candidate for the same ; and also have, on the 
day before the commencement, produced certificates from the 
Treasurer, the Butler, and the Librarian, that he has paid to 
them their resnective dues. 



154 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

III. No candidate for the second degree may expect the 
honor of the same, unless he shall have preserved a good moral 
character, and previously to the commencement signified to the 
president his desire of the same : All candidates for either 
degree shall be personally present, unless in any instance the 
president and fellows shall judge it proper to confer the honor 
of a degree upon an absent candidate, in which case he shall 
pay into the college treasury one dollar, or such greater sum as 
the president and fellows shall appoint. And certificates from 
the treasurer, that the money required of the candidates for the 
second degree, for the public dinner, and likewise of absent 
candidates, has been paid to him, shall be produced to the 
scribe of the corporation on the commencement morning; or 
said money may be paid to the scribe, who shall be accountable 
to the treasurer for the same, or so much thereof as he shall 
receive. 

IV. All academical honors shall be given by the president, 
with the consent of the trustees, and the candidates for a first 
or second degree, shall, each, for the same, pay to the presi- 
dent four dollars. 

V. The candidates for either degree shall attend the public 
procession on the commencement day, from and to the college ; 
and shall perform the public exercises, which shall have been 
previously appointed for them by the president ; and no public 
exhibition shall be made without such appointment nor with- 
out having been approved by the president. And if any 
student, without permission from the faculty, shall fail to 
perform the exercise which has been allotted to him ; or shall 
speak any thing which has not been approved by the faculty, 
he may be deprived of a degree. The president shall begin 
and close the business and public entertainment of the day 
with prayer. 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 155 

Laws of the State of New York, 1813 

Chapter 98 

AN ACT extending the Time, and continuing in force for a 
limited Period, certain Banking Incorporations in this 
state, and for other purposes. 

Passed April 2, 1813. 

L BE it enacted by the people of the state of New York, 
represented in Senate and Assembly, That the act entitled " an 
act to incorporate the stockholders of the Merchant's Bank in 
the city of New York," and the act entitled " an act to incor- 
porate the stockholders of the New York state bank, and for 
other purposes," shall be and hereby are respectively extended 
and continued in force until the first Tuesday of June, one 
thousand eight hundred and thirty-two. 

IL Provided always, and be it further enacted. That it shall 
and may be lawful for the comptroller of this state, and he is 
hereby authorized and required to subscribe to the capital stock 
of each of the said banks, six hundred shares, in the name of 
the people of this state, for the use of the common school fund, 
to be paid for out of the said fund; and that the treasurer of 
Union college shall and may subscribe for the use of the said 
college, four hundred shares to the capital stock of each of the 
said banks, and the capital stock of each of the said banks are 
hereby accordingly increased one thousand shares ; and that 
the treasurer of Hamilton college shall and may subscribe for 
the use of the said college, four hundred shares to the capital 
stock of each of the said banks, and the capital stock of each 
of the said banks is hereby increased accordingly: Provided 
always, that the trustees of the said colleges shall not vote upon 
the said shares so to be subscribed: Provided always, that on 
the shares to be so subscribed shall be paid into the said bank 
a sum not exceeding the amount paid by the former stock- 
holders, and in like manner from time to time as calls may be 
made by the directors of said bank. 



156 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

V. Provided ahvays, and be it further enacted, That it shall 
and may be lawful for the comptroller of this state, and he is 
hereby authorized and required to subscribe the sum of fifteen 
thousand dollars to the capital stock of the bank of New York, 
and the sum of five thousand dollars to the capital stock of the 
bank of Albany, in the name of the people of this state, for 
the use of the common schools, to be paid out of the common 
school fund; and also that the treasurer of Union college for 
and in behalf of the trustees of said college, be and he is 
hereby authorized to subscribe the sum of twenty thousand 
dollars to the capital stock of the bank of New York, the sum 
of twenty thousand dollars to the capital stock of the bank of 
Albany, the sum of five thousand dollars to the capital stock 
of the Farmer's bank, and the sum of five thousand dollars to 
the capital stock of the bank of Hudson; and also that the 
treasurer of Hamilton college, for and in behalf of the trustees 
of the said college, be and he is hereby authorized to subscribe 
the sum of fifteen thousand dollars to the capital stock of the 
bank of New York, the sum of fifteen thousand dollars to 
the capital stock of the bank of Albany, five thousand dollars 
to the capital stock of the Farmer's bank, and ten thousand 
dollars to the capital stock of the bank of Columbia, and five 
thousand dollars to the capital stock of the bank of Hudson ; 
and the capital stock of the said banks is hereby respectively 
increased to an amount equal to the sums authorized by this 
act to be subscribed on behalf of the people of this state, and 
the trustees of Union college and the treasurer of Hamilton 
college : Provided always, That the trustees of Union college 
and the trustees of Hamilton college shall not be entitled to 
vote for directors upon the shares to be subscribed for the use 
of the said colleges. 

VI. And he it further enacted, That it shall be lawful for 
the trustees of Columbia college, with the consent of the direc- 
tors of the banks mentioned in this act, to subscribe to the 
capital stock of each of the said banks to the extent hereby 
authorized and granted to the trustees of Union college, and 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 157 

in case such subscription shall be made, the capital stock of 
the banks where it is made shall be increased to the amount of 
such subscription : Provided always, That the trustees of 
Columbia college shall not be entitled to vote for directors on 
such subscriptions. 

Laws of the State of New York, 1813 
Chapter 82 

AN ACT relating to the different Cdlleges zvithin this State. 

Passed April 9, 181 3. 

I. Be it enacted by the People of the State of New York, 
represented in Senate and Assembly, . . . 

And whereas the comptroller, by virtue of an act heretofore 
passed, did transfer to the trustees of Hamilton college, bonds 
and mortgages executed to the people of this state, for lands 
in the late Oneida reservation, to the amount of fifty thousand 
dollars : Therefore, 

XVH. Be it further enacted, That upon the payment of the 
interest due, or to grow due on the said bonds and mortgages, 
at or before the expiration of one year after the same shall 
have become due, the payment of the principal shall not be 
demanded until the expiration of ten years from the nineteenth 
day of June, one thousand eight hundred and twelve, pursuant 
to the terms and conditions of the act aforesaid. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Seventh Meeting, May 15, 18 13. 

. John H. Lothrop, chairman of the committee to 
whom was referred the subject of the stewardship of the Col- 
lege, reported as follows : 

The committee appointed to devise a plan for the establish- 
ment of the stewardship of Hamilton College report the 
following : 



158 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 



I. Of the Office and Duty of the Steward. 

1. The steward shall contract to execute the duties of his 
office at least one year from the time of his entering on the 
same, give sufficient surety, to be approved by the Treasurer, 
for the faithful performance of his trust, and on all subjects 
relating to his department be associated with the Faculty of 
the College. 

2. He shall reside in the house adjoining the dining hall 
built for that purpose, with his family, and have the occupa- 
tion of the garden and other grounds to be appropriated to his 
use on such terms as shall be provided by contract. 

3. A large and extensive garden shall be improved and culti- 
vated by the Steward for his own and College use, the plan 
and arrangement of which shall be under the direction of the 
Trustees ; in which apartments shall be allotted to such 
Students as may wish to learn and practice Botany, Horti- 
culture, the cultivation of fruit, etc., under the particular direc- 
tion of the Faculty. 

4. The Steward shall be the purveyor of all supplies for the 
commons of every nature, and superintend and direct the whole 
disposition and management of the same under such regula- 
tions as shall be prescribed by the Trustees. 

5. The Steward shall likewise be the purveyor of all the 
wood to be used by the Students, which he shall have ready 
at all times, secured in woodhouses to be provided, suitably 
prepared for the fireplaces of the College, and shall deliver 
the same by the cord in the Students' apartments in the College 
when required. 

6. The Steward ex officio is to be the Butler of the College, 
the duties of which department shall be executed under the 
regulations and direction of the Faculty. 

7. The Steward shall, if directed by the Faculty, have the 
charge and direction of washing and mending for the Students, 
which he shall cause to be faithfully executed by servants under 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 159 

his direction. He shall likewise have direction and manage- 
ment of the sweeping, making beds, disposition of ashes, and 
washing and cleaning the rooms of the Students and the other 
buildings of the College, and shall at all times have in his 
employ proper persons to do necessary errands at the call of 
the Students. None but male servants shall be permitted to 
perform any of the duties required within the College or 
College yard, and all servants are to be under the sole control 
and management of the Steward. 

8. The Steward, as inspector of the public buildings and 
College premises, may associate with himself two suitable 
mechanics to make estimates, etc., and it shall be his duty to 
see to making all repairs and to assess on any Student the 
amount of any injury done by him to his room or the College 
appurtenances, subject to the correction of the Prudential 
Committee. The good order, neatness, preservation, and re- 
pairs of the whole College premises shall be committed to the 
care and management of the Steward, whose duty it shall be 
to attend to the same. 

2. Of the Compensation of the Steward. 

Tlie Steward shall keep regular and correct accounts of the 
expenditure of all monies in the various departments of his 
office, shall procure vouchers for the same, and the same shall 
be audited by the auditing committee at the expiration of each 
term. He shall likewise open and keep all accounts with each 
Student, and make all collections and account for the same 
in the general statement of his accounts ; and as a compensa- 
tion for all his services he shall be allowed such salary as shall 
be agreed on by the committee who may contract with him. 

3. Of the Regulation of the Hall. 

1. The provisions of every description provided by the 
Steward shall be of a good quality, pure and wholesome. 

2. Plain, simple, and neat cookery will be insisted on as 
indispensible, and the following bill of fare so arranged as to 



160 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 



produce as great variety as possible : for breakfast, coffee, 
souchong and hyson skin tea, chocolate shells, and milk, hot 
rolls and butter, plain toast, buckwheat and Indian cakes and 
cheese; no meat. Dinner: roast, boiled, fried, fricaseed, and 
broiled fresh meats, salt meats once a week, soups twice a 
week, salt or fresh fish on Saturdays, with an abundant supply 
of every description of vegetables the country produces, plain 
rice, flour, Indian, buckwheat, and bread pudding, baked and 
boiled. Supper: tea, chocolate shells, and milk; toasted dry 
bread, biscuit, rusk, plain cakes, and cheese ; no butter or 
meats. 

3. The Steward, when not prevented by sickness or indis- 
pensible business, shall be personally present and superintend 
every meal and see that all the tables are well served. When 
necessarily absent he shall procure some suitable person as his 
substitute. 

4. The tables in the dining hall are to be painted and set 
without cloths ; the tops white, edged with blue, and varnished 
with copal varnish ; the stands and seats a dark chocolate. The 
necessary furniture of the Hall and cooking materials for the 
kitchen to be furnished for the Steward under such regulations 
as shall be presented by the board. 

5. Not more than ten Students are to be allotted to one 
table, who are to be seated so as to face inwards and to be 
located in classes ; each table to have two monitors, whose 
places and duties shall be designated by the Faculty for the 
purpose of preserving order, and reporting all transgressions 
of the rules prescribed by the Faculty to the President. The 
tables and seats of those of the Faculty who shall dine in the 
Hall to be regulated by the President. 

6. The Faculty are to make such rules and regulations for 
the government and good order of the Hall as they shall think 
proper, two fair copies of which shall be kept posted in the 
Hall. 

7. If at any time any provisions shall be placed on either of 
the tables impure, ill-dressed, and not conformable to the 



1813] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 161 

regulations heretofore mentioned, it shall be the duty of the 
monitor of that table to make immediate report to the Faculty 
who shall be present, who shall immediately inspect the same 
and report to the President. 

8. Each table at dinner shall be furnished with at least two 
dishes of meats and vegetables, and other things in propor- 
tion, and at all meals as much alike and in as equal a manner 
as possible, under the direction of the Steward. 

g. No Student shall be allowed to enter the kitchen or dining 
Hall or Steward's house out of meal times except by the par- 
ticular permission of the Steward. 

10. At the expiration of each quarter the Steward shall pro- 
vide a dinner in an extra style, which is to be considered as a 
galaxy dinner, and for which each Student shall pay the Stew- 
ard an extra sum of fifty cents. No Students shall be per- 
mitted to partake of this dinner who shall have been convicted 
of misconduct or irregular behaviour in the Hall during the 
quarter, unless by particular permission of the President. 

11. Perfect neatness and cleanliness will be considered indis- 
pensable, and for this purpose the floor of the kitchen and 
Hall shall be mopped and filed every evening and both apart- 
ments thoroughly cleansed at least once a month; the tables 
properly cleansed after each meal and kept well painted and 
varnished. 

The committee further report that among the several appli- 
cants for the stewardship they are of opinion that Abraham 
W. Sedgwick is the most suitable person to be appointed to 
that office, and that they have notified the said Sedgwick that 
they would so report to the board, and that it will be necessary 
for the Steward to enter on the duties of his office at the com- 
mencement of the next October term. 

Resolved, on motion of Mr. Gold, that the above report with 
the amendments be accepted. 

Resolved, that the Prudential Committee, with the addi- 
tion of Mr. Lothrop, be instructed to contract with the 
Steward. 

11 



162 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1813 

Resolved, that the sum of two thousand two hundred and 
fifty dollars be appropriated to enable the Building Committee 
to discharge the duties enjoined upon them. . . . 

Resolved, that the committee appointed to lay out the Col- 
lege grounds be instructed to confer with the persons who have 
encroached on said grounds and report a mode for settling any 
dispute with said persons and ascertain the exterior line of 
said grounds. ... 

Adjourned without day 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Eighth Meeting. September 14, 1813. 

. . . Resolved, that a sum not exceeding two thousand 
dollars be appropriated for the use of the Steward, to be 
expended under the advice and direction and subject to the 
draught of the Prudential Committee. 

Resolved, that the Committee for laying out and improving 
the College grounds be instructed to purchase twelve acres of 
land adjoining said grounds on the north for the use of the 
College, upon the best terms to be obtained, and that the Treas- 
urer pay to the order of said Committee such sum or sums as 
may be necessary for the purpose aforesaid. . 

Resolved, that it is expedient to erect the present season a 
woodhouse north of the Dining Hall and that a sum not 
exceeding four hundred dollars be appropriated for that object, 
subject to the draught of the Building Committee. . . . 

Resolved, that Mr. Piatt be a committee to draw suitable 
conveyances for conveying all and singular the property, real 
and personal, from the Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy 
to the Trustees of Hamilton College, and to cause the same to 
be executed. . . . 

Resolved, that a new College be built the ensuing season; 
that the walls thereof be made of stone ; that a sum not exceed- 
ing nine thousand dollars be appropriated for building the 
College; and that Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Piatt, Mr. Gold, Mr. Nor- 



1814] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 163 

ton, and Mr. Kirkland be a committee to consider and adopt a 
suitable plan for said building and cause the same to be erected. 

Resolved, that there be appropriated for the purpose of pro- 
curing chemical apparatus and materials one hundred dollars. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer pay to the Faculty of the Col- 
lege the sum of two hundred dollars to be expended for the 
purchase of books for the College Library. . . 

Proceedings of the Regents of the University of the 
State of New York. 

Meeting of March 29, 1814. 

. . . The Regents of the University report — ... 

From Columbia, Union, and Hamilton Colleges, special rep- 
resentations of their respective conditions have been made to 
the Legislature, by which the degree of increasing prosperity 
in each will be seen, and how far the very great benefits they 
are calculated to afford to the community, recommend them to 
the unremitted support of Government. 

Hamilton College is yet in its infancy, and the Regents 
cherish the expectation that it will grow to maturity with a 
rapidity equal to that of the improvements progressing in the 
district for whose accommodation it has been principally 
erected. . . . 

Laws of the State of New York, 1814. 
Chapter 120, 

From Southwick's edition, Albany, 1814. 

AN ACT instituting a Lottery for the promotion of Literature 
and for other purposes. 

Passed April 13, 1814. 

WHEREAS well regulated seminaries of learning are of 
immense importance to every country, and tend especially, by 
the diffusion of science and the promotion of morals, to defend 
and perpetuate the liberties of a free state : Therefore, 



164 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1814 

I. BE it enacted by the People of the state of New-York, 
represented in Senate and Assembly, That there shall be raised 
by lottery, in successive classes, a sum equal in amount to the 
several appropriations made by this act, together w^ith the 
simple interest accruing thereon, till the same shall be raised 
and paid by the managers appointed to superintend the same : 
Provided, however, that this provision for the payment of 
interest shall not extend to interest which may accrue on either 
of the provisions contained in this act for more than six years 
from the time of passing the same. 

II. And be it further enacted, that one hundred thousand 
dollars be appropriated, to be paid out of the avails of said 
lottery in manner aforesaid, towards the completion of the 
edifices already commenced by the trustees of Union College, 
and for the erection of such other edifices as may by them be 
deemed requisite. 

III. And be it further enacted. That thirty thousand dollars 
be appropriated as aforesaid, for the purpose of paying a debt 
already contracted by the said trustees. 

IV. And be it further enacted. That twenty thousand dollars 
be appropriated as aforesaid, for the purpose of increasing 
the library, and also the philosophical and chemical apparatus 
belonging to said institution. 

V. And be it further enacted. That the sum of fifty thou- 
sand dollars be appropriated to augment the small charity fund 
heretofore granted by the legislature of this state. . . . 

VI. And be it further enacted. That all the right, title, and 
interest of the people of this state in or to all that certain piece 
or parcel of land, with the appurtenances, situate in the ninth 
ward of the city of New-York, known by the name of the 
Botanic Garden, and lately conveyed to the people of this state 
by David Hosack, with the appurtenances, be and the same 
is hereby granted to and vested in the trustees of Columbia 
College, in the city of New- York, their successors and assigns ; 
but this grant is made upon the express condition, that the 
college establishment shall be removed to the said tract of land 



1814] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 165 

hereby granted, or to lands adjacent thereto, within twelve 
years from this time ; and if the said establishment shall not 
be so removed within the time above limited, then and thence- 
forth this grant shall cease and be void, and the premises 
hereby granted shall thereupon revert to the people of this 
state. 

VIL And be it further enacted, That the trustees of Colum- 
bia College shall, within three months from the time of the 
passage of this act, transmit to the trustees of each of the 
other colleges in this state, a list of the different kinds of 
plants, flowers and shrubs in said garden ; and within one year 
thereafter, the said trustees of Columbia College shall deliver 
at the said garden, if required, at least one healthy exotic 
flower, shrub or plant of each kind, of which they shall have 
more than one at the time of application, together with the 
jar or vessel containing the same, to the trustees of each of 
the other colleges of this state, who shall apply therefor. 

Vin. And be it further enacted, That the sum of forty 
thousand dollars be paid to the trustees of Hamilton College, 
to be by them applied as the interest of the said college may 
require. 

IX. And be it further enacted, That four thousand dollars 
be appropriated to the minister and trustees of the Asbury 
African church, in the city of New- York, for the purpose of 
enabling them to discharge a debt contracted in the pur- 
chase of their church, and to establish a school under their 
direction. . . . 

X. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of 
the secretary of state, to transmit to the New- York historical 
society, a set of the revised laws, and also of the journals of 
the present and future sessions of the legislature. . . . 

XI. And be it further enacted, That the right reserved to 
this state, to subscribe to the stock of the bank of Utica, be 
and the same is hereby transferred to the college of physicians 
and surgeons of the western district, with full power to dis- 
pose of the same, . . . 



166 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1814 

XII. And be it further enacted, That thirty thousand dol- 
lars be appropriated as aforesaid, to the college of physicians 
and surgeons in the city of New-York, for the endowment of 
the said college. 

XIII. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of 
the trustees of said colleges, to account annually to the regents 
of the university, for the expenditure of the money herein 
appropriated for the use of said colleges, and that the said 
regents report the same from time to time to the legislature. 

XIV. And be it further enacted. That the person adminis- 
tering the government of this state, be and he is hereby 
authorised to appoint four managers, who are hereby empow- 
ered to form such plan for the said lottery as may appear 
expedient, to dispose of the tickets and to superintend the 
drawing of the same. 

XV. And be it further enacted. That the managers appointed 
as aforesaid, shall hold their appointment subject to the future 
pleasure of the legislature, and that they shall have the powers 
and be subject to the regulations, restrictions and directions 
contained in the act, entitled "An act relative to the managers 
of lotteries," passed April 13th, 1813. 

XVI. And be it further enacted, That no ticket in any class 
in this lottery, shall be offered for sale till the lotteries hereto- 
fore granted by the legislature of this state shall be drawn. 

XVII. And be it further enacted. That two classes of this 
lottery, as well as of the lotteries heretofore granted, may 
be drawn in each and every year, until the whole shall be 
completed. 

(Note. — No bill before the legislature excited greater inter- 
est and attention than this act. Much credit is due to the 
unwearied exertions of the able and eloquent president of 
Union College, in procuring its passage.) 



1814] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 167 



Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Ninth Meeting, May 19, 18 14. 

. . . Resolved, that the further sum of seven thou- 
sand dollars be, and the same is hereby appropriated for com- 
pleting the new College this season, and that the Building 
Committee be authorized from time to time to draw on the 
Treasurer for tlie amount of the same. 

Resolved, that Joseph Kirkland, Joel Bristoll, and Simeon 
Ford be a committee to examine into the state of the Steward's 
department and to report to the board at their present meeting 
if any, and what, alterations are necessary. 

Resolved, that Azel Backus, Thomas R. Gold, and Samuel F. 
Snowden be a Committee to purchase books for the Library 
and philosophical apparatus for the College, and that the sum 
of five thousand dollars be appropriated for this purpose. 

Resolved, that John H. Lothrop, Joel Bristoll, and William 
Hotchkiss be a committee to settle the accounts of the Steward, 
and to make such alterations in the diet of the Students as they 
may think proper, and to make other regulations in the Stew- 
ard's department as may be for the interest of the Corporation, 
and that the Committee have power to draw on the Treasurer 
from time to time in favor of the Steward. 

Resolved, that the charge for tuition and room be raised 
to thirty dollars per year after the present term, and that for 
the present term it be eight dollars. 

Resolved, that (in consideration of the advanced expense of 
living) in addition to the present compensation the Professors 
and Tutors be entitled to their board in the Hall, and that 
they have the benefit of the foregoing provision for the pres- 
ent term. 



168 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1815 



Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Tenth Meeting. September 13, 1814. 

. . . Resolved, that a further sum of four thousand 
dollars be appropriated for the use of the Building Committee 
appointed to erect a new College edifice. 

Resolved, that a sum not exceeding fifteen dollars be annu- 
ally appropriated to purchase premiums on public speaking, 
and that the Treasurer pay the same to the order of the 
President. 

Resolved, that the report of the Committee upon the sub- 
ject of the Steward's department be referred to Ephraim Hart, 
Sewall Hopkins, William Hotchkiss, Joel Bristoll, and Azel 
Backus, and that they be empowered to settle with and dis- 
miss the present Steward if they shall think best, and to employ 
such other person as they may deem proper; and that they be 
authorized to make any alterations that they may deem expedi- 
ent in either the price of board or the diet, and to make any 
other arrangement in relation to this department that they 
may think necessary. 

Resolved, that Azel Backus, Asahel S. Norton, and Thomas 
R. Gold be a Committee to prescribe the form of a diploma 
and procure a plate for the same, and that the sum of eighty 
dollars be appropriated for that purpose. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Eleventh Meeting. May 9, 18 15. 
Resolved, that the further sum of fifteen hundred 
dollars be appropriated to the use of the new Building Com- 
mittee and that the Treasurer pay their drafts for that sum. 

Resolved, that William Hotchkiss, Sewall Hopkins, and Joel 
Bristoll be a committee to lay out and improve a sidewalk from 
Hamilton College to the village of Clinton, and that the sum 
of fifty dollars be appropriated for that purpose; provided 
that the inhabitants of said village will subscribe and pay one 
hundred dollars for the same object. . . . 



1816] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 169 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Twelfth Meeting. September 12, 1815. 

. . . Resolved, that all persons, alumni of other Colleges 
requiring a like term or course of studies as prescribed in this 
College, who are entitled to a degree of Master of Arts in the 
Colleges where they may have been educated, be admitted to 
the degree of Master of Arts in this College, unless personal 
objection be made to any such person. 

Resolved, that the President request the Sheriff of the 
County of Oneida for the time being to attend upon Com- 
mencement and assist in keeping order during the services ; 
and that the Steward make provision for the entertainment 
of the Sheriff in the same manner as for the Trustees. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer cause a settlement to be made 
with Abraham W. Sedgwick, the former Steward, and take 
such measures for the collection of the balance due as he may 
deem proper. 

Resolved, that Joseph Kirkland, Nathan Williams, and 
Henry Huntington be a Committee to make application to the 
Legislature for further donations, in such manner and at such 
times as they may deem for the interest of the College. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Fourteenth Meeting. September 10, 181 6. 

. The Committee appointed for that purpose reported 
the following Rules and Regulations, which were adopted by 
the Board: 

1. The Executive Government of the College is vested in 
the President, Professors, and Tutors, who shall severally 
exercise such powers and perform such duties as have been or 
shall be assigned to them by the Trustees. 

2. The several officers of the College, in their individual 
capacity, or as members of the Executive Government, are 



170 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1816 

required to exert their authority and influence in maintaining 
discipline and promoting virtue, piety, and good learning in 
the Seminary ; to notice and punish violations of the laws ; to 
refer the consideration of offences exceeding the power of a 
single officer to punish, to the Executive Government, and 
to afford the President and Government their advice and 
co-operation. 

3. The Executive Government have power to determine 
the relative standing of the Students ; to prevent and to punish, 
as in their judgment may be deemed necessary, the commis- 
sion of crimes and misdemeanors against which no express 
provision is made by the laws of the College, and in general 
to make such regulations for the better execution of the Col- 
lege system as shall not be incompatible with the Charter of 
the College nor the express ordinances of the Trustees. But 
all such regulations shall be reported to the Trustees at the 
meeting next after they shall have been made. 

4. The President is authorized to exercise a general super- 
intendence of the literary and religious concerns of the Col- 
lege ; to see that the course of instruction and discipline is 
duly executed: to call meetings of the Executive Government 
at his discretion; to preside and to vote in those meetings; to 
preside at the publick examinations, exhibitions, and com- 
mencement; to perform the religious services of the Chapel; 
to address publick and private instruction and counsel to the 
Students ; to hear the recitations of the Senior Class in 
Rhetoric, Logic, Locke on Human Understanding, and moral 
Philosophy; and in general to take such measures and per- 
form such acts for the better execution of the duties assigned 
to him as in his judgment shall not be inconsistent with the 
Charter and Laws of the College. No Regulation of the Execu- 
tive Government may go into operation without the concur- 
rence of the President. 

5. The Professors and Tutors (unless specially exempted) 
shall occupy apartments in the College, and are required to 
exercise authority and frequent inspection in their particular 



1816] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 171 

districts; and as occasion may in their judgment require in 
any part of the College premises. 

6. During the first and second Terms of the year the Pro- 
fessor of Languages is required to hear, in each week, four 
recitations of the Senior Class in Kaimes' Elements of Criti- 
cism and in such portions of Classical and English Literature 
as the Executive Government may direct; he is also to hear 
during the same terms in each day one recitation of the Fresh- 
man Class in the Latin or Greek language ; and is especially 
required to instruct them effectually in the elements of these 
languages ; during the third Term he shall hear once in each 
day a recitation of the Sophomore Class in the Odes of Horace, 
and he is required to instruct them in like manner in the 
Prosody of the Latin Language, and particularly in the meters 
which occur in the Poems of Horace. Through the whole year 
he is, moreover, required to review and correct the composi- 
tions of the Senior and Junior Classes. 

7. The Professor of Chymistry and Mineralogy is required 
to deliver in each week three lectures to the Senior Class on 
subjects connected with his profession, and to illustrate his 
lectures by appropriate experiments; during the second and 
third Terms of the year he is moreover required to have in 
each week one recitation of the Junior Class in an approved 
compendium of the principles of Chymistry, and to illustrate 
the language and doctrines of that branch of Natural Philoso- 
phy by suitable experiments. The several articles of Chymi- 
cal apparatus are committed to his care, and he is directed 
to see that they are in good order and in their proper places. 

8. The Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy 
is required to hear in each day two recitations in some branch 
of Mathematics or Natural Philosophy. During the third 
Term of the Senior Year he is to instruct the Senior Class 
four times in each week in the use of Mathematical and Philo- 
sophical Apparatus and in the practical applications of the doc- 
trines of Natural Philosophy. In general he is to give such 
instruction and exhibit such experiments to the Senior Class as 



172 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1816 

may tend to complete the course of education in his depart- 
ment, and prepare his pupils most effectually for their final 
examination. He is also required to keep an accurate meteoro- 
logical register, and to take care that the several articles of 
Mathematical and Philosophical Apparatus are in good order 
and in their appropriate places. 

9. The Tutors are each to hear three recitations on Mon- 
days, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and two recitations 
on Wednesdays and Saturdays, in such portions of Classical 
and English Literature and Mathematics as shall be assigned 
to them in the manner prescribed in the following article. 

10. The hours for recitations and other Collegiate exercises 
and the books to be recited (except as herein before provided) 
sliall be determined by the Executive Government. Duties 
not comprehended in the preceding distribution shall be 
assigned to the proper of^cer in the same manner. 

11. The Students shall regularly and seasonably attend the 
Publick and Private lectures, recitations, and other exercises 
announced by the President, or by a Professor or a Tutor. 
They shall use their best diligence in preparing themselves for 
their several literary exercises and shall perform them with 
care. 

12. For better ascertaining and promoting the improvement 
of the Students, the several Instructors are specially desired at 
each recitation or private lecture to satisfy themselves respec- 
tively as far as practicable that each Scholar has duly studied 
the lesson assigned, and for this purpose they are authorized 
and required to direct the attendance of one or more Students 
or of the whole Class, who were required to perform an exer- 
cise at other than at the stated times of College Exercises. 

13. The final examination of the Senior Class shall com- 
mence on the fourth Wednesday preceding the Publick Com- 
mencement. At the close of this examination the Seniors shall 
have leave of absence until the Friday next preceding the 
Commencement. 



1816] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 173 

14. The Trustees, while they enact laws with penalties, 
earnestly desire that all the Students may be ever excited to 
diligence in study and a right behaviour by other motives than 
the fear of punishment ; by a sense of duty and of character ; 
by a regard to their own permanent advantage, to the wishes 
and expectations of their friends and instructors, and to the 
claims of Society; and by a love of Literature and Science. 
If in any case such considerations and incentives are ineffectual, 
punishments will be necessary. The College punishments are 
fines, admonitions, official notice of delinquency to Parents or 
Guardians, the injunction of special study, degradation, rusti- 
cation, suspension, dismission, and expulsion. 

15. The fines imposed by a Professor or a Tutor may in no 
single instance exceed one dollar. Fines imposed by the Presi- 
dent may not in any case exceed two dollars. All fines exceed- 
ing two dollars must be imposed by the Executive Government. 

16. Crimes which are to be punished by the Government 
collectively are : Profaneness ; intoxication ; riotous behaviour ; 
dissipation; fighting; insolent and contemptuous deportment 
towards any Officer of the College; insulting, challenging or 
abusing any one of the Students or resident graduates ; lying 
or prevarication; entering the apartment of another Student 
at an unreasonable hour of the night; offences which accord- 
ing to the laws of the State are punishable by fine, imprison- 
ment, or otherwise ; associating with bad company after advice 
and counsel to the contrary from a Trustee or Officer of the 
College ; combinations to resist the Government generally or 
any particular Officer in the discharge of his official duties; 
all acts of resistance in consequence of such combinations; 
refusal to give testimony in regard to any offence against the 
laws or authority of the College when required by the Govern- 
ment; frequenting Taverns; prodigality in expenses; making 
or attending festive entertainments in the College or its vicin- 
ity; Exhibitions of any sort whatever, publick or private, 
without permission from the President; tumultuous, indecent, 
or troublesome noises to the dishonor or disturbance of the 



174 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1816 

College or any part of it, or to the disturbance of the town 
or any of its inhabitants, especially after being warned to 
desist by a Trustee or Officer of the College ; want of respect 
in speech or behaviour to any person concerned in the Instruc- 
tion and Government of the College; refusal to admit into 
any apartment the Officer who may demand entrance ; neglect 
or refusal to attend immediately when sent for by any Officer 
of the College, and to render suitable assistance, when required, 
for the suppression of disorder in the College ; playing at cards 
or other games of chance; and defacing or otherwise injuring 
the College Buildings. 

17. When any Scholar is brought before the Government 
for violence or insult offered to any Officer of the College, 
the person or persons injured or insulted, unless a major- 
ity of the Governors are so injured or insulted, shall not have 
a voice, or be present, when such insult or injury is investigated. 

18. Misdemeanors punishable by any one of the Instructors 
are : absence from any one of the stated or occasional lec- 
tures, recitations, and other publick exercises, both literary 
and religious ; coming unseasonably to those exercises, or care- 
lessly performing them ; absence of any Student, in the hours 
of study, from the room assigned to him; absence from his 
room after ten o'clock at night; singing immodest songs or 
using indecent language ; indecorous behaviour at the required 
exercises ; absence from the College territory during the hours 
of study and recitation; noise and disturbance in the apart- 
ments of the College during the same hours. 

19. The Officers of the College are severally authorised to 
punish misdemeanors recited in the preceding article by fines, 
admonitions, and the injunction of special study. Other pun- 
ishments are to be inflicted by the Government collectively. 

20. When the misdemeanors above mentioned are frequently 
committed, and the infliction of the milder punishments fails 
to produce a reformation of the offending Student, the case 
may be referred to the Officers of the College generally, who 
shall decide on the treatment necessary to be pursued. 



1817] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 175 

21. Students who shall be absent from the College premises 
five minutes after the hours of study have commenced shall be 
fined a sum not exceeding twenty-five cents. 

22. Students who are found during the hours of study in 
any apartment of the College other than that which is assigned 
to them by the President shall be fined a sum not exceeding 
twenty-five cents. 

23. Students who are absent from their room after ten 
o'clock at night shall be fined any sum not exceeding one 
dollar. 

24. No Student shall put himself under the tuition of an 
Instructor in any science or art without the permission of the 
Faculty. 

25. If any Student, being an undergraduate, shall buy, sell, 
or barter among themselves books, apparel, or any other thing 
above the value of two dollars without the leave of the Presi- 
dent, one of the Faculty, or their Guardian or Parent, it shall 
be in the power of the Executive Government to make void 
such bargain, and to punish each person so offending by a fine 
not exceeding one dollar. 

26. It shall be the duty of the Students, on the requirement 
of the Faculty, to disclose the objects and constitution of any 
association among them, whether literary or otherwise, and it 
shall be the duty of the Faculty to suppress any such associa- 
tion or society if they shall disapprove of the same. 

27. The duties in joined by the laws of the College on the 
President, in case of the President's absence or indisposition 
tlevolve on the Professor of Languages, to be by him per- 
formed as far as may be. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Fifteenth Meeting. January 21, 181 7. 

At a special Meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton College. 
. . . the attention of the Board being called to the subject 
of electing a President of the College as successor to the Revd. 



176 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1817 

Azel Backus, D.D., deceased, the following proceedings were 
had, viz. : 

Resolved, that this Board proceed to elect by ballot a Presi- 
dent of the College as successor to the Reverend Azel Backus, 
D.D., deceased. 

On counting the ballots, it appeared that the Reverend Henry 
Davis, D.D., of Middlebury, Vermont, was duly elected; 
Therefore, 

Resolved, unanimously, that the Reverend Henry Davis, 
D.D., President of Middlebury College, be and he is hereby 
appointed President of Hamilton College, and that Mr. Miller, 
Mr. Dwight, and Mr. Kirkland be a Committee to notify the 
President elect of his appointment. . . . 

Resolved, that the Treasurer attend upon the Honorable 
Legislature of this State to present a petition soliciting pecuni- 
ary aid and that this Board make provision for the payment 
of his expenses and time, and in case no aid can be obtained 
from the Legislature, that the Treasurer (if in his opinion it 
shall be necessary) go to the city of New York for the purpose 
of negociating a loan for the use of the College. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Sixteenth Meeting. March 17, 181 7. 

At a Special Meeting of the Trustees of Hamilton Col- 
lege. . . . 

Resolved, unanimously, that the Treasurer be and he is 
hereby directed to pay to the widow of the late President 
Backus the salary which would have become his due up to the 
end of the third quarter of the current year, and that the Trus- 
tees will provide for the board and tuition of the late Presi- 
dent's son, Robert Backus, in case he shall think proper to 
pursue the usual course of studies adopted by the College, and 
that the Secretary be directed to send to the widow of the late 
President a copy of this resolution. 



1817] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 177 

The Committee appointed to communicate to the Reverend 
Henry Davis, D.D., his appointment as President of this Col- 
lege, and to request his answer, having reported that they had 
attended to that duty and had received for answer that he 
declined accepting the office ; Therefore 

Resolved, that this board proceed to elect by ballot another 
person to fill the vacancy, which being done accordingly, it 
appeared on counting the ballots that the Reverend Francis 
Brown of Hanover, in the State of New Hampshire, was 
elected President of Hamilton College ; wherefore, 

Resolved, that Mr. Miller, Mr. Dwight, Mr. Kirkland, and 
]Mr. Frost be a Committee to inform the Reverend Francis 
Brown of his appointment as President of Hamilton College, 
and that they request his early answer. 

Resolved, that the Revd. Henry Dwight be requested to 
proceed to Dartmouth College and have a personal interview 
with the Revd Mr Brown on the subject of his acceptance of 
the Presidency of Hamilton College; and that the Treasurer 
pay the reasonable expenses of his journey. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Eighteenth Meeting. June 6, 1817. 

. . . The Report of the Committee on the subject of 
the presidency was read, by which it appears that the Reverend 
Francis Brown declines accepting the office of President of the 
College ; whereupon 

Resolved, that the Committee on the subject of the Presi- 
dency be instructed to inquire and ascertain whether the Rever- 
end Gardiner Spring, of the City of New York, would accept 
the appointment of President of Hamilton College if elected 
to that office, and in case he should consent to accept the 
appointment, that this Board would proceed to the election. 

Resolved, that the communication of the Committee on the 
subject of the Presidency to the Revd M^ Spring be forwarded 
by Mr Professor Norton, and that the Treasurer pay his rea- 
sonable expenses therefor. . . . 
12 



178 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1817 

Laws of the State of New York, 1817. 
Chapter XCI. 
AN ACT for the relief of Hamilton college. 

Passed March 18, 181 7. 

WHEREAS the trustees of Hamilton college have repre- 
sented to the legislature, that they have been at great expense 
in erecting buildings and making other improvements, neces- 
sarily incident to a new establishment ; and, in consequence 
thereof, have been obliged to contract large debts, which they 
are, at present, unable to discharge without sacrifices greatly 
to the injury of the college, inasmuch as they are restrained, 
by the terms of the grant, from collecting the monies due 
upon the mortgages assigned them by the comptroller, pursu- 
ant to an act for that purpose, and the money granted them 
by lottery cannot, at present be realized — Therefore, 

BE it enacted by the people of the state of New York, rep- 
resented in Senate and Assembly, That the treasurer of this 
state, on the warrant of the comptroller, pay to the trustees 
of Hamilton college, the sum of ten thousand dollars, in part 
anticipation of the money authorised to be raised for the said 
college, by virtue of the " act instituting a lottery for the pro- 
motion of literature, and for other purposes," passed April 13, 
1814; and that the said sum of ten thousand dollars, with 
interest at the rate of six per cent, per annum, be retained 
by the treasurer, for the use of this state, out of the sum of 
forty thousand dollars, by the eighth section of the said act 
directed to be paid to the trustees of the said college. 



1817] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 179 



Proceedings of the Trustees. j 

Nineteenth Meeting. June 24, 18 17. 

. . . The Report of the Committee on the subject of 
the Presidency was read, by which it appeared probable that 
the Revd Gardner Spring would accept the office of President 
of the College if elected. The Board immediately proceeded 
to the election, and on counting the ballots they appeared unani- 
mous in favour of the Revd Mr Spring. Therefore 

Resolved, unanimously, that the Reverend Gardner Spring, 
of the City of New York be and he hereby is appointed Presi- 
dent of Hamilton College. 

Resolved, unanimously, that the Committee on the subject 
of the Presidency communicate to the Revd Gardner Spring 
without delay his appointment as President of Hamilton Col- 
lege and renew to him the expression of the anxious wishes 
of the Trustees for his acceptance of the appointment; and 
that in case of Mr Spring's acceptance of the Presidency, his 
salary shall commence from the time of such acceptance; and 
that the Trustees will defray the expense of his removal and 
that of his family and effects to the house appointed to the 
use of the President near the College. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Twentieth Meeting. July 21, 18 17. 

. . . The Committee on the subject of the Presidency 
having reported that the Rev^ Gardner Spring declined accept- 
ing the office of President of the College, the Board proceeded 
to elect by ballot a person to fill the vacancy, when on counting 
the ballots, it appeared that they were unanimously given for 
the Reverend Henry Davis, D.D., of Middlebury, in the State 
of Vermont. 

Resolved, unanimously, that the Rev^ Henry Davis be and 
hereby is appointed President of Hamilton College. . , . 



180 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1818 

Report of the Trustees of Hamilton College to the 
Regents of the University, i8i8: 

From the papers of President Davis, in the College Library 

The Faculty of the College are 

President, the Rev. Henry Davis, 

D.D annual salary $1800.00 

Professor of Chemistry, Dr. Josiah 

Noyes do do 750 . 00 

Professor of Mathematics and 
Natural Philosophy, Theodore 
Strong do do 750 . 00 

Professor of Languages, Seth Nor- 
ton do do 750 . 00 

Tutors : Edward Robinson do do 500 . 00 

Rev. Eleazer Barrows ... do do 500 . 00 

for preaching to the Students 200 . 00 



Number of Students, 58. $5250.00 

The property of the College is as follows : 

The College Plot, about 30 acres, on which are two build- 
ings, 
Oneida Hall, of wood, three stories high, 96 feet by 48. 
Hamilton Hall, of stone, four stories, 93 by 48. 
A Dining Hall and Steward's House in connection, of stone, 

55 feet in length. 
A President's House, of wood, and another small house, 

and outhouses. 
About $30,000 in notes, bonds, and mortgages, yielding 

annually about $2000.00. 
About 3,000 acres of wild land, indifferent in quality and 

unproductive. 
A Library of about 650 volumes. 
A few articles of chemical and philosophical apparatus, very 

insufficient. 
The expense of each student who spends his whole terms at 

the College, for tuition, board, room, and firewood, is 

$120.00. 



1819] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 181 



Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Twenty-Third Meeting. August 25, 18 18. 

. . . Resolved, that from and after the present commence- 
ment no instrumental music shall be admitted on commence- 
ment days or other days of public exhibition in College, either 
in procession or during the exercises of the day, except such 
as may be necessary to accompany the vocal music of the day. 

Report of the Trustees of Hamilton College to the 
Regents of the University, January, 1819. 

From the papers of President Davis, in the College Library 
The Faculty of the College. 

Pres. Rev. Henry Davis Annual Salary $1800 

Prof, of Chemistry, Dr. Josiah Noyes do 750 

Prof, of Math. & Nat. Philosophy, 

Theodore Strong do 750 

Senior Tutor & Chaplain Rev. Eleazer 
Barrows do 750 

Junr. Tutor, Solomon Strong do 500 

Professorship of Languages vacant. 

Number of students seventy three, 
thirty three of which have been ad- 
mitted since the last commencement. 

Course of Studies. 

Freshman Class; Livy, Graeca Minora, Roman Antiquities, 
Arithmetic revised, Murray's Eng. Grammar, Morse's Geog- 
raphy of America, Graeca Majora. 

Sophomore Class; Geography of the Eastern Continent, 
Graeca Majora, Playfair's Euclid, Day's Algebra, Horace, 
Webber's Mathematics 2 vol. Homer, Tully De Oratore. 



182 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1819 

Junior Class; Webber's Math. 2 vol., Day's Surveying, 
Enfield's Nat. Philosophy, TuUy De Oratore, Tacitus, Henry's 
Chemistry, Vince's Fluxions, Tytler's Elements of History. 

Senior Year; Hedge's Logic, Blair's Lectures, Lock on the 
Human Understanding, Paley's Moral Philosophy, Kaim's 
El. Criticism, Paley's Ev. Nat. and revealed religion, Butler's 
Analogy. 

By all the Classes particular attention is paid to composition 
and speaking. 

The two older classes receive lectures from the professors 
in their respective branches. 

Expense of Board, Tuition and Room rent, and Apparatus 
and Library, as before. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Twenty-fifth Meeting. August 24, 18 19. 

. . . Resolved, that Mr. Kirkland, Mr. Bristoll, and Mr. 
Hopkins be a Committee to lay out the grounds enclosed in 
the College Yard, and to cause trees of ornament to be set out 
in such numbers and in such manner as they may deem proper, 
and that the sum of one hundred dollars be appropriated to 
defray the expense. . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 

Meeting of April 3, 1819. 

The Board then proceeded to the consideration of the annual 
Report of the Regents to the Legislature and after some time 
spent therein and sundry amendments made thereto it was 
resolved that the same be adopted in the words following. 

Hamilton College, although the youngest in the State, bids 
fair to rise high in reputation, and from the advantages of its 
location, it can not but prove extensively useful. Its number 
of students during the last year was seventy three. . . . 



1820] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 183 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of April 12, 1820. 

Mr Young from the Committee appointed to prepare the 
annual Report of the Regents to the Legislature submitted the 
following — 

It appears from the returns made by the Colleges and 
Academies within the state, that during the last year eighty 
seven students have been members of Hamilton College. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Twenty-seventh Meeting. August 22, 1820. 

. . . Resolved, that a suitable burying ground or cemetary 
be set apart and designated on the College land, near the 
College, for the interment of the Officers of the College and 
their families, the Students of the College, and others attached 
thereto. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Piatt, Norton, and Miller be a Com- 
mittee to tender to the persons offering to erect a monument to 
Schenendo, the Oneida Chief, a place in said cemetary for said 
monument, consulting the Oneida Indians and their Catechist. 

Resolved, that the remains (the friends of the deceased 
assenting) of the Reverend Samuel Kirkland, Doctor Backus, 
and Professor Norton be removed to said cemetary and monu- 
ments be erected; that a suitable fence be erected around said 
burying ground ; and that a sum not exceeding three hundred 
dollars be appropriated for the above purpose. . . . 

Resolved, that the resolution heretofore passed, prohibiting 
the use of instrumental musick on commencement day, be 
rescinded, and that hereafter instrumental musick may be em- 
ployed and paid by the class which graduates, provided the 
whole expense on account of said musick does not exceed the 
sum of twenty dollars, and provided that there shall be no 
performance of said musick in the church until the close of 
the exercises. . . . 



184 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1821 



Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of March 19, 1821. 

Mr Duer from the committee appointed to prepare the 
annual Report of the Regents to the Legislature submitted the 
following draft. 

... In Hamilton College the number of students is ninety 
two, the annual expense to each, for Board, tuition, lodging 
and contingences, is ninety two dollars for the first two years, 
and one hundred and one for the next two. The course of 
study adopted in this institution is, upon the whole, judicious, 
as well as comprehensive, and the growing importance of that 
section of the State, in which it is situated, entitles it to a 
continuance of the fostering protection of the Legislature. 



Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Thirty-first Meeting. November 21, 1821. 

Resolved, that an additional College Building, 
according to the plan heretofore adopted, be erected, the same 
to be completed by the first of January, 1824, and that for 
that purpose Messrs. Lothrop, Lynch, and Hopkins, together 
with the Treasurer, be a committee to designate the site for, 
and cause said building to be erected within the period afore- 
said; which committee, in purchasing the materials and com- 
pleting the building, shall observe the utmost economy, and 
avoid all unnecessary expense as far as due regard to the 
original Plan of College Buildings will permit. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Lynch, Kip, and McNeil be a com- 
mittee to make application to the Legislature the ensuing winter 
for additional funds for the College. . . . 



1822] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 185 



Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of April lo, 1822. 

The Committee appointed to prepare the annual report to 
the Legislature submitted the following draft which having 
been read and amended was adopted, as follows : . . . 

The number of students in Hamilton College is one hun- 
dred. The property of this institution consists of about thirty 
acres of ground, on which are the College edifices ; about 
twenty six thousand dollars in Bonds Notes & Mortgages 
about Three thousand acres of wild land unproductive and 
not of much value ; a Library of Thirteen hundred volumes 
and some articles of Chymical & philosophical apparatus. 

The expense for a student who spends his whole terms at 
College including tuition board and contingencies for the two 
first years is about ninety two dollars annually and One hun- 
dred dollars annually for the two last. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Thirty-third Meeting. August 27, 1822. 

. . . Resolved, that the Committee of Finance, with the 
Treasurer, be instructed carefully to watch over the Lottery 
Funds of the College. 

Resolved, that a power of attorney under the seal of the 
Corporation and hand of the Clerk be executed to the Treas- 
urer, authorizing and empowering him to transfer all the right 
of this Institution to the avails of the Literature Lottery to 
the Trustees of Union College, and to receive from said 
Trustees such payments and securities as he shall think proper, 
subject to the approbation and directions of the Committee 
appointed on that subject. . . . 

Resolved, that hereafter curtains shall not be drawn around 
the pew in the rear of the stage on any day of Commence- 
ment or Classical Exhibition, and that no ardent spirits or wine 
be suffered to be brought into the church by any graduate or 
undergraduate of the College for their use on those days. . , 



186 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1823 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of April 17, 1823. 

Mr Duer from the Committee appointed to prepare the 
annual report submitted the following draft, viz. . . . 

The number of students in Hamilton College was on the 
23rd of January last, one hundred and seven. The Professor- 
ships appear to be well arranged, and the Course of Studies, 
upon the whole, judicious in reference to the local situation 
of the College. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Thirty-Fourth Meeting. May 13, 1823. 

. . . Resolved, that the Building Committee take a survey 
of the old Academy building, and take immediate measures 
to make such repairs therein as shall be necessary to render 
the same fit for the accommodation of the Students at the 
commencement of the next term, and that they draw on the 
Treasurer for the amount of their expenditures. 

Resolved, that the members of the Finance Committee re- 
siding in Utica audit the account of the Treasurer as to his 
agency and expenses in dispositing of the Lottery Funds of 
the College, and that the Treasurer retain the amount. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Thirty-sixth Meeting. October 8, 1823. 

. . . Resolved, that Messrs. Gold, Piatt, and Anthon be 
a Committee to consider and report upon the subject of the 
College exercise of Public Speaking. 

Resolved, that an additional building for the College be 
undertaken, and that the sum of seven thousand five hundred 
dollars be appropriated for that purpose; and that a Com- 
mittee of Superintendance, to consist of eight members of the 



1825] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 187 

board, be appointed, with full power to cause said building to 
be erected, and in such style and form as they may adopt; 
and the said Committee shall appoint a sub-committee of their 
number to aid and assist the Treasurer in executing this 
resolution, and draw for the monies so appropriated as the 
same may be needed. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Lothrop, Lynch, Hart, VanRens- 
selaer, McNeil, Piatt, Kirkland, and Gold comprise said 
Committee. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of April 12, 1825. 

The Regents of the University respectfully report. . . . 

The condition of Hamilton College equals the most san- 
guine expectations entertained for its prosperity. The faculty 
consists of the President, three Professors and the requisite 
number of Tutors. The number of Pupils in the different 
classes, the present year, is one hundred and five. This insti- 
tution has increased in reputation and now affords its patrons 
very flattering prospects of continued usefulness in the promo- 
tion of science and diffusion of literary knowledge. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Fortieth Meeting. May 10, 1825. 

. . . Resolved, that the General Superintending Com- 
mittee of the College building now erecting be authorised to 
enquire into the expediency of inclosing the said College and 
finishing a suite of rooms for the occupancy of Professor 
Monteith and his family, together with the necessary lecture 
and recitation rooms ; and also as to the propriety of discon- 
tinuing the further prosecution of the work on said building 
after it shall have been so enclosed and rendered secure from 
injury; and of applying the materials on hand to the erection 
of a Chapel for the use of the College ; and that the said Com- 



188 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1825 

mittee report their opinion in the premises to this Board at 
their next meeting. 

Resolved, that no instrumental music whatever be admitted 
at Commencement, or at Classical Exhibitions, except as the 
accompaniment of vocal music. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Forty-first Meeting. August 23, 1825. 

Resolved, that the College Building erected the 
present season be secured against the weather, the windows 
boarded up, and that further proceedings be suspended till 
further orders. 

Resolved that the Treasurer proceed to build a Chapel and 
cause the same to be completed as soon as practicable, con- 
sistent with due economy, and that Messrs. Piatt, Lothrop, 
and Hubbard be a Committee to advise and direct the Treas- 
urer as to the form and size and mode of finishing; and that 
the Chapel be located south of Kirkland Hall ; and in case the 
Committee should differ in opinion in relation to the advice 
and direction to be given the Treasurer, they are authorized to 
call on the Building Committee for their assistance, . . . 

Philip Hooker to John H. Lothrop. 
Dear Sir. 

I have received your favour of the 19th instant. I received 
a communication from the late Mr E. Clark dated the 8th of 
last month, giving me a particular description of the Site and 
Buildings of Hamilton College, requesting me to forward a 
Plan or Elevation of a front of a chappel, to have a Tower 
and Steeple standing intirely without the Building which was 
to be 75 by 50 feet front. He informed me that the Building 
would be " Erected for other purposes, beside Religious and 
Classical exercises " that it would have " three tiers of win- 
dows " and that it would be " 33 feet in height above the 
watertable." 



1826] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 189 

On the receipt of his letter I wrote to him to inform me of 
the distribution of the interior the better to enable me to design 
a front to answer the internal arrangement, and whether a 
steeple with a proportionate spire would be preferred — or 
whether something of the style of a cupola with two sections 
finished with a dome would not be more proper for a Chappel 
than a lofty spire. The tower I presume ought to contain a 
clock — and a college bell as a matter of course. If I under- 
stand the thing correctly the Steeple is to be placed in front, 
or at the east end. Is the stairs to be carried up in the tower 
or elsewhere. 

If you will favour me with a few hints on the subject, I 
shall forward a drawing for the same forthwith. 
Respectfully yours 

P. Hooker 

23rd Novr 1825 
J. H. Lothrop Esq 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Forty-second Meeting. December 7, 1825. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Gold, Piatt, and Smith be a Com- 
mittee to petition the Legislature at the next session, and, if 
the same be deemed expedient, to cause a special delegate to 
attend the Legislature, to solicit funds for Hamilton College, 
at the expense of this Board. 

Laws of the State of New York, 1826. 
Chapter 143. 

AN ACT for the protection of the Side Walks between the 
Public Square in the Village of Clinton, in the County of 
Oneida, and Hamilton College, and between the said 
Square and the Ladies' Seminary in said Village. 

Passed April 10, 1826. 
I. BE it enacted by the People of the State of New York, 
represented in Senate and Assembly, That if any person, after 



190 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1826 

the passage of this act, shall wilfully do, or aid or assist any 
person in doing any injury to the side walks, between the 
public square in the village of Clinton, in the county of Oneida, 
and Hamilton College, or to the side walks between the public 
square and the ladies' seminary in said village, or to the fences 
or railing erected for the protection thereof, every person so 
offending, shall forfeit the sum of five dollars for each offence, 
to be recovered, with the costs of suit, in an action of debt, 
before any justice of the peace, in the name of the overseer of 
highways of the road district, in which such injury shall have 
been done. 

2. Atid be it further enacted, That if any person shall here- 
after wilfully ride, lead or drive any horse or horses along 
either of said side walks, or shall wilfully drive any waggon, 
sleigh, or other carriage thereon, every person so offending 
shall forfeit the sum of one dollar, to be recovered in like 
manner, 

3. And be it further enacted, That every person oft'ending 
against any of the provisions of this act, shall in addition to 
the penalties imposed by this act, be liable to pay damages to 
the extent of the injury done, to be recovered in like manner, 
and that all penalties and damages to be recovered under this 
act, shall be applied in the reparation of the said walks, or 
of the fences and railing erected for the protection thereof. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Forty-fourth Meeting. August 22, 1826. 

. . . Resolved, that Messrs. Gold, Lothrop, and Hubbard 
be a Committee to petition the Legislature for aid to the 
College funds, and if in their opinion it be expedient, to em- 
ploy a special agent to attend the Legislature. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer furnish said Committee with 
documents to show correctly the amount of the College funds, 
after the expense of the present building, now in course of 
erection, is deducted, as far as they can be ascertained. . . . 



1827] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 191 

Resolved, that a Professorship of Theology be established, 
and the same is hereby established in Hamilton College, and 
that a Professor be appointed whenever in the opinion of the 
Trustees the same shall be sufficiently endowed. 

Resolved, tliat Messrs. Davis, Gold, Smith, McNeil, and 
Coe be a Committee to prepare and circulate a subscription 
paper for funds to endow the Professorship of Theology in 
Hamilton College, the subscription to take effect in case the 
sum of twelve thousand dollars be subscribed. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 

Meeting of April 12, 1827. 

The usual returns have been received from all the Colleges 
in the State, according to which, their respective number of 
Students in each class, for the past year, is as follows: 



Columbia College . . 
Union College .... 
Hamilton College . . 
Geneva College .... 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Forty-fifth Meeting. May 8, 1827. 

. . . Resolved, that it be the duty of the President and 
Professors of the College to visit the rooms of the Students 
at least twice a week, and that it be the duty of the Tutors to 
visit the rooms of the Students in each of their particular 
sections at least once a day during each Term. . . . 

Resolved, that the Treasurer, as soon as he can get posses- 
sion of the Boarding Hall and grounds, connected therewith, 
lease the same on the most favourable terms he can obtain. 

Resolved, that Messrs. McNeil, Lothrop, Kirkland, Bronson, 





.b opho- 






Seniors Junior 


mores 




Total 


33 30 


31 


33 


127 


— — 


— 


— 


183 


25 29 


22 


14 


90 


7 2 


10 


18 


2>7 



192 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1827 

Brown, Hopkins, and Coe be a committee to enquire into the 
state of the College in general, and particularly in relation to 
the government and Course of Instruction therein, and the 
conduct and demeanor of the several Officers thereof; and in 
particular in relation to any suggestions which may have been 
made by one Officer unfavourable to another, or derogatory 
to his character in any manner, and that they report thereon 
at the next meeting of this Board. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Forty-Sixth Meeting. August 21, 1827. 

Whereas, at the last meeting of this Board a committee was 
appointed to investigate the condition of the College and to 
report at the present meeting the result of their enquiries ; and 
whereas, such report has been presented to the Board at their 
present meeting and put on file, showing, among other facts 
of deep interest to the friends of the College, that its produc- 
tive funds are very rapidly reducing, and do not at the present 
time exceed the sum of fifteen thousand dollars, and that the 
sum annually received for tuition falls more than three thou- 
sand dollars short of the amount of the salaries paid to the 
officers of the College ; and whereas the state of the public 
mind with respect to the College is such as to forbid the hope 
of securing patronage to the Institution and an increase to 
the number of its students until some very essential and 
favourable changes shall take place in its character; therefore 

Resolved, that, such being the condition of the College, this 
Board, as guardians of the Institution, having high and im- 
portant trusts to discharge, and regarding at the same time 
the interests and character of the present Faculty of the Col- 
lege, are of opinion that imperious necessity demands the ap- 
plication of some remedy to prevent the entire destruction of 
the Funds and the total prostration of the Institution. . . . 



1828] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 193 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Forty-seventh Meeting. September 19, 1827. 

. . . Resolved, that the pecuniary circumstances of the 
College make it necessary to reduce the Salaries of the Officers ; 
therefore 

Resolved, that the Salary of the President be reduced to 
the sum of twelve hundred dollars, and that the Salary of the 
Professor of the Greek Language be reduced to the sum of 
six hundred fifty dollars. 

Resolved, that until further ordered Professor Monteith 
discharge the duties of the Professor of the Latin and Greek 
Languages. 

Resolved, that the present state of the College imperiously 
requires that the services of the Professor of the Latin Lan- 
guage be dispensed with until the next meeting of this Board. 

Resolved, that Mr. Lothrop, Mr. Maynard, Mr. Frost, Mr. 
Dwight, and Mr. Smith be a committee to report to this Board 
as soon as practicable a proper course of studies, exercise, and 
discipline to be pursued in this Institution; and that the 
Treasurer pay all the necessary expenses of the committee in 
the execution of their duty. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Forty-eighth Meeting. January 9, 1828. 

. . . A letter from Professor Strong, announcing his 
resignation as Professor of Mathematics &c., was read, ac- 
cepted, and ordered to be filed. The report of the committee 
of the 19th of September, appointed to report a proper course 
of studies &c., was read and considered and ordered to lie 
on the table. A communication from Mr. Smith on the same 
subject was disposed of in like manner. . . . 

Resolved, that the resolution of this Board passed at their 
last meeting, reducing the salaries of the President of the 
13 



194 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1828 

College and the Professor of the Greek Language be and the 
same is hereby rescinded. 

Resolved, that Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Maynard, and Mr. Bron- 
son be a committee to confer with the President of the Medical 
Society of the County of Oneida and such other persons as he 
may designate, on the subject of the memorial presented by 
him for the consideration of the Board ; and to report at the 
next meeting of the Board such measures to be taken in the 
premises as they may deem for the best interest of the College. 

Resolved, that Mr. Bronson, Mr. Aikin, Mr. Lansing, Mr. 
Williams, and Mr. Coe be a committee to take into considera- 
tion the state and condition of the College with power to 
devise such measures as they may deem proper for its in- 
terests; and to report the same to this Board at its next 
meeting. 

Resolutions Adopted by Students of the College, 1828. 

At a meeting of the students of Hamilton College, convened 
at the Chapel on the 14th inst. for the purpose of expressing 
their opinions with regard to the causes of the present low 
state of this institution, N. Cushman was called to the chair, 
and S. T. Fairchild appointed Secretary. After many remarks 
from different individuals upon the object of the meeting, on 
motion of Mr. Mather it was 

Resolved, that Stephen A. Goodwin, Hamilton Van Dyck, 
and Hicks Worden be a committee to draft resolutions expres- 
sive of the sense of the meeting. The committee retired for 
a short time and reported the following. 

The Students of Hamilton College, aware of the low state 
of this institution ; fully convinced that with its best interests 
are identified their own ; that the fondest wishes and justest 
expectations of their friends, of the patrons of this College, 
and of the community at large, are not realized ; feeling a deep 
solicitude for its welfare ; and believing that it is expedient 



1828] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 195 

no longer tamely to witness measures, which in their opinion 
are detrimental to their own interests, and those of the institu- 
tion of which they are members, do adopt as expressive of 
their sentiments on this subject the following Preamble and 
Resolutions. 

Whereas the decline of this institution has been wrongfully 
attributed to the maladministration of the Faculty, and where- 
as certain measures adopted by the Trustees have, in their 
influence upon our justly revered president and professor of 
languages, seriously affected the reputation of this institution, 
and whereas in consequence of these measures our very 
eminent instructor, the late professor of mathematics, has 
left this institution, cp which account many students who have 
been induced by his high reputation as an instructor, to become 
members of this college, not only feel themselves deeply in- 
jured, but are unwilling without ample satisfaction longer to 
remain, and whereas the course of studies in the several classes 
in consequence of the aforesaid measures, has been so arranged 
as to produce great dissatisfaction in those classes, and where- 
as in consequence of the aforesaid measures the students are 
required to attend public worship at an unreasonable distance, 
much to their inconvenience and frequently to their unneces- 
sary exclusion from religious instruction, and whereas the 
Trustees have neglected to establish a Professorship of 
Rhetoric and Divinity, as their own promises had led us con- 
fidently to expect, Therefore, 

Resolved, That so far from considering the Faculty as 
having contributed to the decline, we believe that their un- 
remitted exertions have been for the advancement of the best 
interests of this Institution. 

Resolved, that the treatment of our respected Principal and 
Professor of Languages, so deleterious in its consequences, 
should and hereby does receive our decided disapprobation. 

Resolved, That the immediate appointment of an able Pro- 
fessor of Mathematics is indispensably necessary. 

Resolved, That if affairs remain long in their present con- 



1% DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1828 

dition we cannot enjoy the advanta<;es which were expected in 
this and are enjoyed in other institutions and do not feel our- 
selves under any obligations whatever longer to continue mem- 
bers of this Institution. 

On motion of Mr. Norton, Resolved that the preceding 
preamble and resolutions be adopted as expression of the sense 
of this meeting. 

On motion of Mr. Ullmann, Resolved that the proceedings 
of this meeting be signed by the Chairman and Secretary. 

On motion of Mr. Baxter, Resolved that a committee of 
three be appointed to hand the proceedings of this meeting to 
the Trustees of Hamilton College. Messrs. Baxter, Mather, 
and Ullmann were appointed to the committee. 

(Signed) N. Cushman, Chm 
S. T. Fairchild, Secretary. 

[Endorsed] 
Reed & nothing sent 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Fifty-first Meeting. September 17, 1828. 

, . . Resolved, unanimously, that Mr. John H. Lathrop, 
of the Town of Gardiner, in the State of Maine, be and he is 
hereby appointed Professor of Mathematics and Natural 
Philosophy in Hamilton College with a Salary of eight hun- 
dred dollars per annum; and that the Clerk of the Board be 
and he hereby is directed to notify the Professor elect of the 
said appointment, and to assure him that it is the firm deter- 
mination of this Board to continue the College in operation, 
and if he accept said appointment he will meet with the cordial 
cooperation and support of this Board. 

Resolved, that Mr. Williams, Mr. Gridley, and Mr. BristoU 
be a committee to ornament the College yard by planting 
forest and other trees and shrubbery at a suitable season of the 
year, at an expense not exceeding fifty dollars. . . . 



1828] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 197 

LIenry Davis to the Regents of the University. 

From the papers of President Davis, in the College Library 

To the Honourable the Board of Regents of the University 
of the State of New York the undersigned begs leave respect- 
fully to present the following petition. 
Gentlemen, 

Constituted as you are, by the supreme authority of the 
State, the guardians of the interests of Literature and Science 
in a great and prosperous Community, you cannot but ex- 
perience lively gratification in every well-directed and success- 
ful effort, made under your fostering care, for the promotion 
of those interests ; and the failure of an effort for this object, 
no matter from what cause, commenced under circumstances 
calculated to excite in the public mind well grounded hopes 
of a propitious result, will not fail to be regarded by you with 
deep regret. 

And when an Institution of Learning, founded under your 
auspices and liberally endowed from the public treasury, 
becomes sickly and paralyzed in its operations — and of course 
fails of its object — to your Honourable Body it belongs, it is 
believed, to investigate the disorders under which it is labour- 
ing and to prescribe the remedy. 

It is with no ordinary emotions that your petitioner finds 
himself constrained by an imperative sense of duty to invite 
the attention of your Honourable Body to the Institution over 
which he presides. Situated in a region highly fertile, delight- 
ful, and favoured with a salubrious climate ; in the midst of 
an enterprising, virtuous, numerous, and increasing people; 
with an endowment of $100,000 from the State and of $50,- 
000 from private munificence, Hamilton College, it was con- 
fidently expected, was destined soon to become a highly respect- 
able and useful Seminary. 

The steady growth of the Institution for several years 
seemed to leave little room to doubt that the expectations which 



198 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1828 

had been excited would l^e fully answered. The following 
facts derived from the printed documents of the College 
furnish a satisfactory history of its progress during the 
administration of your petitioner. 

The first year of his presidency no catalogue of the students 
was published. The whole number in the four classes at this 
period — 1817-18 — was little more than 50 — graduated 10 

1818-19 — whole number — 73 12 

1819-20 89 14 

1820-21 93 18 

1821-22 100 15 

1822-23 107 33 

1823-24 1 10 17 

1824-25 105 23 

1825-26 100 28 

1826-27 90 23 

1827-28 — no correct catalogue was published.. 17 

There were admitted this year, previous to the 1st of No- 
vember, 32 young gentlemen — as great a number as has been 
usually admitted so early in the year. The number of under- 
graduates at that time was about 80. Had it not been for 
certain adverse occurrences, it was ascertained that they would 
have amounted, at least, to 100. Since that time, Nov. ist, 
1827, we have had no Professor of Mathematics and Natural 
Philosophy to give instruction in those Sciences ; and since 
May 1828 no Professor to give instruction in the Languages. 
Subsequent to the last date but one Professor (i. e. a Professor 
of Chymestry) has been connected with the Institution, whose 
salary, because they have no services for him, is suspended by 
a resolution of the Board of Trustees for the present year. 
At the Commencement in August last, besides the seventeen 
young gentlemen in the Senior class who were then graduated, 
there were remaining in the College but ten members, viz. 
three Sophomores and seven Freshmen. Of the 80 young 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 199 

gentlemen who were members of the Institution Nov. ist 1827, 
four only are now connected with it; five have been admitted 
the present year; so that the total number of our scholars at 
present is nine, of which five are in the Sophomore, and four 
in the Freshman class. It must be obvious to any one that 
causes of no ordinary character must have operated on the 
vital energies of the Institution to produce so rapid and un- 
paralleled a decline. 

In view of the facts above stated, your petitioner would 
respectfully and earnestly request of your Honourable Body 
that you would faithfully seek for a knowledge of those 
causes ; and adopt such measures to save the College from the 
dissolution which threatens it, and to restore its once healthful 
and vigorous action, as in your wisdom you shall deem proper. 

Should it be the opinion of your Honourable Body, after a 
thorough and impartial investigation of the subject, and when 
in possession of all the facts, that its rapid decline and present 
languishing condition can justly be attributed to your peti- 
tioner, he will be unwilling to remain an obstacle to the pros- 
perity of an Institution, which he doubts not may be rendered 
by judicious and able management an ornament and a blessing 
to our State and to our Nation. 

Henry Davis 
Hamilton College President of Hamilton College. 

15th Jan. 1829 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of February 3, 1829. 
A communication from John Lay, Jesse Curtiss, Josiah 
Bacon and others, representing themselves to be a Committee 
appointed by citizens of the County of Oneida, setting forth 
the present declining state and condition of Hamilton College, 
and requesting the Regents to ascertain the causes which have 
produced the decline, and to adopt such measures to restore 
the College to its former state as to them should appear suit- 



200 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1829 

able and proper, was read, and after some time spent thereon 
it was ordered, that, inasmuch as the Trustees of said College 
did not make any report to the Regents at their last annual 
session, the Secretary be directed to inform them of their 
default, and to call on them for a Report of the present state 
and condition of their College and of the causes, if any, which 
have produced a decline in its afTairs. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Fifty-second Meeting. March i8, 1829. 
A communication from the Regents of the Uni- 
versity of the State of New York was read and considered, 
and a committee, consisting of Messrs. Kirkland, Lansing, 
Yates, Williams, and Lothrop was appointed to report thereon, 
which report having been made, was accepted by the Board, 
as follows : 

" The Regents of the University having, by their resolution 
of the 3d day of February, 1829, called upon this Board to 
report the present state and condition of Hamilton College, 
and also the causes, if any, which have produced a decline in 
its affairs; and the usual annual report of the state of the 
College having been submitted by the Chairman and Clerk 
of the Board on the 23d day of February last ; 

" Resolved, without expressing any opinion on the power 
of the Board of Regents to require of the Trustees to report 
the causes of the decline of the affairs of the College, that in 
their opinion it would be inexpedient to attempt to state the 
causes of such decline, and would lead to no practical good; 
but that the Trustees will be happy to receive a visit from the 
Board of Regents, or a committee of the same, whenever it 
shall suit their convenience or pleasure. . . ." 

Resolved, that whereas a proposition has been made in the 
name of Gerritt Smith, Esq., to support the College on cer- 
tain conditions apparently favourable to its prosperity, Messrs. 
Davis, Yates, Williams, Goodrich, and Knox be a committee 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 201 

to receive his proposition definitely and report the same to this 
Board at their meeting in May next. 

Gerrit Smith to Andrew Yates. 

From the papers of President Davis, in the College Library 

Petersboro March 23rd, 1829 
Rev. Dr. Yates. 

My Dear Sir, 

The subject of your conversation with me last Saturday 
has been much on my mind ever since. The concerns of a 
College may be brought under the general distinction of its 
internal and external interests. The first being the charge 
of the faculty and the other of the Corporation. On the last 
branch I will make a few remarks. 

Formerly no serious inconveniences were felt from the 
great defect in the kind of government exercised by the Cor- 
poration of a College. That defect consists in the govern- 
ment being so very general and distant and inconstant. A Col- 
lege at the present time that is highly prosperous may succeed 
in spite of this defect ; and the principal reason why all our 
Colleges may not succeed as well now, as they formerly did 
under a government sitting thus loosely about them, is the 
rapid multiplication within a few years of similar Institutions 
in our country. 

The competition amongst these schools has, of course, been 
sharpening, as their number increased; and inducing a closer, 
more attentive and particular government of them. This com- 
petition and these consequences of it have been the greater 
because many of these schools are individual property, and are 
conducted under the vigilant eyes and by the stimulated hands 
of self interest. It is already with our superior schools, as 
with our manufactories. A few years ago, and our manufac- 
toring establishments succeeded pretty well even under the 
very general and negligent charge of the Incorporated com- 
panies that conducted them. Now, private enterprise in the 



202 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1829 

same channels has either driven those estabHshments ashore, 
or necessitated them to come under a more efficient direction. 

A similar competition amongst our schools of a higher 
grade is loudly demanding a similar change in the govern- 
ment of them ; and perhaps there is not one of them under 
such a vital need of this change as Hamilton College. For if 
the government usually exercised by a Board of Trustees over 
a College is not adequate to sustain the Institution against its 
multiplying competitors, how totally insufficient must such a 
government be to revive and invigorate a dead College. What 
remedy is within the reach of your Board? I think of nothing 
that promises so well to raise the College as the enlistment 
of individual responsibility in the undertaking. 

That responsibility I never felt to any great extent, whilst 
I was a member of the Board, and probably it was so with 
my fellow members. To make that responsibility the most 
efifectual, let it be made to extend to the property, as well as 
to the character of the person you load with it. Where will 
you find the right man to come under that heavy responsibility ? 

In a conversation with Mr Keep the other evening, I was 
vain enough to volunteer myself for it. I am conscious of 
having three qualifications for the service. The first is : a 
strong attachment to my Alma Mater. The second is : that 
I am in such circumstances, as probably justify me in incur- 
ring the hazard of so much of my property. And the third 
is: my solicitude (quite as ambitious as any man should be) 
to preserve, in all my pursuits, a good and respectable name. 
But these qualifications, important as they are, do not com- 
prise all that are needed for this service. It is desirable that 
the person imbarking in it, be able to add to these qualifica- 
tions an extended reputation for integrity, wisdom and learn- 
ing — such a reputation in short as would inspire a very gen- 
eral and strong confidence in the success of the undertaking, 
to which he puts his hand. 

I most earnestly wish, that the Board might find a man of 
such eminent fitness, willing to pledge his faithful and per- 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 203 

severing endeavors — his purse and his character — to the 
revival of an Institution, in whose fall so many precious public 
interests sympathise and deeply suffer. I know not where 
you can find such a man. Probably Henry Dwight of Geneva 
is as nearly so as any man in this part of our country ; but he 
has such an aversion to a College, that he would make a con- 
science of pulling down rather than building up one. 

Should the Board be pleased with such a scheme, as was 
barely hinted to them by Mr. Keep, and should they after fail- 
ing to find a suitable man for it, think proper to charge me 
with the high trust, that the scheme contemplates reposing 
in some individual, you are at liberty to say I will gratefully 
accept of it on the following terms. 

1st. Term of the trust to be 6 years. 

2nd. I am to have the use of all the College grounds, build- 
ings and their contents. 

3rd. The Board to repair and improve from time to time 
in such manner, as they may think proper, the said grounds 
and buildings, and also the apparatus and Library. , 

4th. The Board to complete the North Edifice, if the increase 
of students within the six years should require it. Looking 
no farther than the interest of their treasury, they would of 
course be pleased to have this expenditure become necessary. 

5th. Commencement Dinner to be provided by the Board. 

6th. The Board to be at no expense in sweeping rooms, 
halls, &c, nor in providing fuel, nor in ringing the Bell. 

7th. I am to defray the whole expense of providing teachers 

— and this item of expense is not to fall below 25 to $30,cxdo 
in the six years — will perhaps exceed this estimate. 

8th. I am to receive all charges for tuition and diplomas; 
and also any rents that may be derivable from any portion of 
the premises. 

9th. I am to draw on the Treasurer of the Board for 
$10,000; this sum is $1000 more than I spoke of to Mr Keep 

— but I must necessarily be at considerable expense, aside 
from paying the salaries of the members of the Faculty — 



204 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1829 

and in making up the $9000 I looked at the subject of the 
salaries only. The $10,000 I am to draw for in the following 
manner: first year, $3000; second year, $2000; third year, 
$1500; fourth year, $1500; fifth year, $1000; sixth year, 
$1000. My draughts in each year to be quarterly and equal. 
In the Annual Report which I shall be bound to make to the 
Board of the particular condition of the College, I am to 
render an exact account of my receipts and disbursements in 
the premises. At the end of six years, or at the end of any 
previous year, when the Trustees shall request me to relinquish 
this trust, or when I may choose to relinquish it, I am to pay 
to the Treasurer of the Board whatever surplus of income 
over expenditure may be remaining in my hands at the time. 
Should there be a deficiency instead of a surplus, that deficiency 
to be my loss. There is to be no interest account between the 
Treasurer and myself. 

loth. As the Corporation have no right to put into other 
hands, unconditionally and beyond their power of resumption 
at any time, the government of the College, so, of course, 
they are not to suffer myself or others to appoint or have the 
exclusive nomination of any member of the Faculty of the 
College. I need but add that the Corporation will readily 
perceive the suitableness and importance of gratifying my 
wishes on these subjects during the continuance of my Trust, 
as far as may possibly consist with their sense of propriety. 

nth. I could not be induced to receive this Trust without 
having an entirely new Faculty, and therefore, if President 
Davis should persist in holding his place, the negotiation 
between the Board and myself is at an end. I have not come 
hastily to this conclusion, nor have I lightly esteemed your last 
Saturday's arguments against it. 

I am President Davis' friend. I have been his pupil, and 
his kindness and faithfulness to me whilst standing in that 
interesting and endearing relation to him can never be for- 
gotten by me. Such are my feelings towards that venerable 
man and his excellent family, that his continuance in the 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 205 

Presidency of the College would be to me a most agreeable 
feature in my contemplated connexion with it, were it not that, 
in my honest judgment, higher considerations, and before 
which all personal considerations must give way, are decidedly 
opposed to it. 

Dr. Davis came into his present office furnished with the 
most ample and flattering testimonials of his fitness for it. 
I cannot believe that he has lost any of his intrinsic fitness 
for it. I know him well, and cheerfully disavow all suspicion 
of his being in his dotage. Still, Hamilton College cannot 
rise under President Davis. Hamilton College must present 
a new aspect, a new state of things, before it can gain public 
confidence. And can it have that aspect, that apparently new 
state of things, as long as President Davis continues at the 
head of it? Produce a change in its conditions, as extensive 
as you please, and yet forbear to change this most essential 
feature, and Hamilton College, in spite of all you have done, 
will continue to be, in the superficial view of the public mind, 
the same old thing of which it has become so sick and weary. 
My friend Dr. Kendrick, in his remarks on this subject before 
the Board, admitted that public opinion is omnipotent, but he 
added, very happily, that it is not immutable. The doctor's 
general proposition is certainly full of truth, but Hamilton 
College has lamentably proved an exception to it, for the years 
that have passed away since the doctor stated it have but too 
conclusively proved that public opinion, in this instance, pos- 
sesses the attribute of immutability as well as of omnipotence. 

I say not by what means Hamilton College has fallen. 
A share of the blame may belong to the President ; a still 
larger share to the Board. I insist upon this only, that time 
has abundantly proved it can never rise but under the auspices 
and application of other hands. I used to say that if the Board 
would but exercise confidence in the President, and cordially 
cooperate with him in advancing the interests of the College, 
their work would not be in vain. But I would not say so now. 
Things have come to such a pass that the public would obsti- 



206 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1829 

nately refuse to take any hope from any such attempted 
co-operation. They would look for no beneficial fruits from 
it. It was given out last September that a reconcilation had 
taken place between the President and the Board, and the 
public had large promises made to them of the cordial co-opera- 
tion of the two in their future efforts to revive the College; 
but the fact that you have scarcely students enough to disturb 
the silence of your empty buildings pronounces the futility 
of your conjoint endeavors to win public favour to the Col- 
lege. In vain has proved your appointment at that time of 
a very able man for your Professorship of Mathematics, and 
of another man, perhaps equally able, for your Professorship 
of Languages. In vain has it proved, that your Secretary 
then announced to the public the new-manning and new-rigging 
of the vessel. It was in vain to awaken hopes of her making 
a successful voyage so long as she continued under the old 
commander. 

But before we talk of regaining the public confidence by 
means of a cordial union of the President and the Board, let 
us, in view of what has passed, frankly acknowledge the 
impracticability of an union ever taking place. A few such 
facts as the following show that it cannot : 

1st. The Board have unanimously resolved that the interests 
of the College demand the resignation of the President. 

2d. Members of the Board have told Dr. Davis in my hear- 
ing that he is, in their judgment, unfit for the place, and that 
whilst he persists in holding it they can do nothing — they 
have no encouragement to do anything — to revive the College. 

3d. For several years the President has been spending no 
little breath in charging the downfall of the College on the 
Board, and in all this time the Board, or at least many mem- 
bers of the Board, have as freely charged it on him. I might, 
if it were necessary, communicate many more facts to show 
that the Board and the President have, in their official capacity, 
long since parted forever. It is but the form of their first 
connection that now remains. Should I enter upon the pro- 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 207 

posed Trust, it would be with the purpose of uniting my own 
spirited and persevering endeavours with such endeavours on 
the part of the Board to raise our beloved Hamilton into the 
very first rank of American Colleges. But ho^y could I flatter 
myself with the aid of such indispensable aid from the Board, 
so long as we were not rid of what, in their repeated judg- 
ment, is a fatal objection to the prosperity of the College ? It 
is surely not enough for me to know that the Board is friendly 
to the College. I am already persuaded that every member 
of it is so. But before I come under the heavy responsibility, 
I must see that there are no obstacles in the way of the pros- 
perity of the College which the Board will regard as insuper- 
able, and which will, of course, deter them from putting forth 
such efforts in belialf of the College as will correspond with 
the friendship they feel for it. Let Dr. Davis continue to be 
the President of the College, and I would place no reliance 
on the aid of the Board, for they could not give me their aid 
against all their convictions of the uselessness of my efforts 
under this encumbrance. 

From views of his duty which, sincere as I have no doubt 
they are, I must still think to be mistaken. Dr. Davis will prob- 
ably refuse to retire from office. He remains there, as he 
says, for self-vindication. There, where he has become so 
unpopular, does he choose to remain to conquer public opinion. 
If I may be permitted to speak so freely of a man for whom 
I am bound to feel the greatest respect, I would say that Presi- 
dent Davis' mind labors under two great errors in this mat- 
ter: 1st, He has no right as a man, much less as a Christian, 
to weigh himself, his private grievances and private interests, 
against the College and all those great public objects which 
suffer so deeply for the revival of the College, and which must 
continue to suffer until he makes room for its revival. 2d, If 
public opinion is made up of individual opinions similar to my 
own, then President Davis will surely not improve in it by 
refusing to give up his office, but he will continue to sink lower 
and lower in it, and to exhibit stronger and stronger proofs 
of his selfish recklessness of the public good. 



208 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1829 

No doubt we all agree that President Davis, in the very act 
of voluntarily returning to private life, will do much towards 
awakening in the public mind a tender interest towards himself ; 
and there, too, he would have leisure, if so disposed to employ 
it, to collect his testimony and frame his argument for con- 
vincing the world that the downfall of Hamilton College is 
chargeable on the Corporation and not on himself. 

I add no more. Yourself and the other gentlemen compos- 
ing the committee can, no doubt, readily determine whether 
it is worth while to assemble the Board to consider this 
communication. 

I need scarcely say to one of such characteristic promptitude 
as yourself that no time should be lost in getting to the close 
of this business. 

With great respect and sincere friendship. 

Yours, 

Gerrit Smith. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of March 24, 1829. 
. . . A communication from the Trustees of Hamilton 
College declining a compliance with the resolution of the 
Regents passed on the 3d of February last, calling on them 
to report the causes of the decline in the affairs of said College 
was read and referred to the Committee appointed to prepare 
the annual Report of the Regents to the Legislature. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of April 7, 1829. 
Mr Butler from the Committee appointed to prepare the 
annual report of the Regents of the University to the Legisla- 
ture, submitted the following draft — ... 

There are at this time but nine students in Hamilton College, 
five of whom are in the Sophomore and the remainder in the 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 209 

Freshman Class. No report was received from this College 
during the year 1828; but the number of students in the insti- 
tution at the date of the report for the year 1827 was ninety. 
The causes of the subsequent diminution in the number of 
students, not being communicated to the Regents in the annual 
report of the Trustees, a resolution was passed by the Regents 
on the 3d day of February last, requiring the Trustees of the 
College to report its present state and condition, and also the 
causes if any which had produced a decline in its affairs. 
A copy of this resolution having been transmitted to the officers 
of the institution, the Regents were informed by a Letter from 
the Treasurer of the corporation, under date of the 23d of 
February, that a meeting of the Trustees was soon to be held, 
when the subject would be laid before them. Since that time 
the Regents have received a communication, a Copy of which 
is annexed to this report, by which it will be perceived that 
the Trustees without expressing any opinion upon the power 
of the Regents to inquire into the afifairs of the College, have 
declined complying with the resolution of the 3d of February 
on the ground that it would be inexpedient to attempt to state 
the causes of the decline in the affairs of the College, and 
would lead to no practical good; but the Trustees state their 
readiness to receive a visit from the Regents, whenever it 
shall suit their convenience or pleasure. It does not distinctly 
appear from the resolution of the Trustees, whether they 
intend to deny the power of the Regents to inquire into the 
matters embraced in their resolution or not; and yet if those 
powers were admitted, it is difficult to suppose that the Trus- 
tees would have declined answering the inquiries addressed 
to them. Viewing the subject in this light, the Regents can 
not refrain from presenting this omission of the Trustees as a 
palpable violation of the Laws of the State, which authorise 
& require the Regents " to visit and inspect all the Colleges 
in the State, examine into the state and system of education 
and discipline therein, and make a yearly report thereof to the 
Legislature ; and also to visit every college in this State, once 
14 



210 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1829 

a year, by themselves or their committees, & yearly to report 
the state of the same to the Legislature." 

It is believed that the power of the Regents to inquire, in 
reference to this particular institution, into the matters 
included within the purview of their resolution of the 3d of 
February, cannot safely be drawn in question ; and it will 
be seen, that there was a peculiar fitness in asking the informa- 
tion desired, when it is considered, that the institution referred 
to had, on two several occasions, received liberal endowments 
from the Treasury of the State. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Fifty-third Meeting. May 12, 1829. 

. . . The committee appointed at the last meeting of 
the Board to receive the proposition of Gerrit Smith, Esquire, 
of Peterboro, in relation to the support of the College on 
certain conditions apparently favourable to its prosperity, and 
to report the same to the Board at this meeting, made a report, 
accompanied by the propositions of Mr. Smith, in writing. 
The report of the committee was read and accepted. 

The communication of Mr. Smith was then read; and 
thereupon the following resolution was offered and adopted 
unanimously : 

Resolved, that the proposition of Mr. Smith, accompanying 
the report of the committee appointed to confer with him in 
relation to the support of the College, is inadmissible and ought 
not to be accepted. . . . 

Resolved, unanimously, that Simeon North, A. M., be and 
he hereby is appointed Professor of Languages in Hamilton 
College. 

Resolved, that the Salary of the Professor of Languages be 
eight hundred dollars. . . . 

Resolved, that the President of the College and the Secre- 
tary of the Board of Trustees make such communications to 
the publick in relation to the College as they shall think 
proper. . . . 



1829] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 211 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Fifty-fourth Meeting. August 25, 1829. 
. A report from the Committee appointed at a former 
meeting of the Board in relation to the Oneida Hall * was 
received and accepted, and thereupon 

Resolved, that the Treasurer be authorised and required to 
remove with as little delay as may be practicable the college 
building called Oneida Hall, and to level the ground on which 
it stands ; that he be directed to dispose of the materials of 
which it is composed to the best advantage in his power; and 
that he report to this Board at its next meeting what he shall 
have done in the premises, with a particular statement of his 
services, receipts, and expenditures. 

On motion of Mr Morse, Resolved, that a committee be 
appointed to inquire into the present state, condition, and pros- 
pects of the Institution under the care of this Board ; and also 
that they enquire into the expediency of introducing into it 
some of the alleged improvements in the method of teaching, 
and generally to propose such measures as shall in their judg- 
ment be adapted to its future prosperity. Messrs. Morse, 
A. Yates, Kendrick, Goodrich, and Randall were appointed 
to the Committee. . . . 

The Committee appointed on the resolution offered by Mr. 
Morse presented their report. Accompanying the report were 
a- number of resolutions, which, after amendment, were adopted 
as follows : 

1. Resolved, that ways and means be devised for increasing 
the Library as rapidly as possible. 

2. That it be the duty of the Faculty to deliver courses of 
lectures on as many branches of science as practicable ; and 
that, when they discover that any of the graduates evince 
genius and the proper talent for good teachers and lecturers, 
they exert their influence to have them remain in the Institution 



The original Hamilton Oneida Academy. 



212 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1830 

after graduation with a view to qualify themselves for such 
stations. 

3. That hereafter, and as soon as the number of pupils will 
warrant it, some experienced practical civil engineer shall be 
employed by this Board annually to deliver a course of lectures 
on practical surveying, levelling, civil engineering, and subjects 
which have an intimate connection therewith. 

4. That every person, whether a student in the Institution 
or not, on paying a compensation to be fixed by the Prudential 
Committee and strictly conforming to the laws of the College, 
be allowed to attend all or any of the lectures or recitations 
of the Institution at the discretion of the Faculty. 

5. In order to secure competent and satisfactory instruction 
to the higher classes of the Institution, Resolved, that a Pro- 
fessorship of Rhetoric and Belles Lettres be established ; and 
that Messrs. Davis, Lansing, and Goodrich be appointed a 
committee to make enquiries and to nominate some suitable 
person to fill such Professorship at the next stated meeting. 

6. That a committee be appointed to enquire into the man- 
ner in which the monies granted by the State and the dona- 
tions of individuals have been applied; that they examine all 
the expenditures of this Board and report to it a detailed state- 
ment of such expenditures, and the amount of money received 
from the State and from private donation ; and that such com- 
mittee be authorised, with the consent of the Treasurer, to 
appoint a competent person to prepare such statement, and 
allow a reasonable compensation therefor; and that Messrs. 
Knox, Randall, and Bacon be appointed such committee. 

7. That the Prudential Committee be directed to propose to 
this Board at its next meeting such measures as the state of 
the College lands and buildings shall admit of, to furnish 
the students with the means of gardening and mechanic 
labour. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 

Meeting of February 26, 1830. 
The Trustees of Hamilton College report the num- 
ber of students in Colie2:e actuallv attending: at the time of 



1830] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 213 

their report, as thirty one, all of whom belong to the three 
lower classes. 

The Regents, in compHance with a resolution of the honor- 
able the Assembly, of the 15th of January last, requiring them 
to lay before that house, in their annual report or otherwise, 
" a detailed statement of the affairs of Hamilton College, 
showing, among other things, the grounds of the difficulties 
under which that institution is said to have been suffering, 
the number of students therein during the year past, the num- 
ber of graduates at the last commencement, the salaries paid 
to each of the officers of the College during the last year, and 
the general prospects of that institution", respectfully report: 

That not having in their possession any documents affording 
the information required by the Assembly, they caused a copy 
of the resolution as soon as the same was received by them, 
to be transmitted to the president of the board of Trustees of 
said College with a request that the information required by 
it might be transmitted to the Regents, to enable them to lay 
it before the Assembly in their annual report. In answer to 
the communication thus made, the Regents have received from 
the chairman of the board of trustees of said College, the 
usual annual report of the college, together with an acknowl- 
edgment that a copy of the aforesaid resolution had been 
duly received, accompanied by an intimation that it could not 
be answered until the next regular meeting of the board of 
Trustees should take place, which would not be before the 
month of May next : but the Regents have been since informed 
by one of the trustees of said College, that a special meeting 
of the board was to be held in the ensuing month of March, 
for the purpose of furnishing the information required by the 
said resolution, to the end that the same might be laid before 
the Legislature at its present session. The Regents will there- 
fore retain the said resolution, and comply with it as soon as 
they shall be enabled so to do by the trustees of said College. 



214 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1830 



Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Fifty-fifth Meeting. March 17, 1830. 
. A communication from the Regents of the Uni- 
versity, inclosing a copy of a Resolution passed by the Hon. 
the Assembly on the 15th day of January last, requesting a 
detailed statement of the affairs of Hamilton College, showing 
among other things the grounds of the difficulties under which 
the Institution is said to have been suffering; the number of 
students therein during the last year; the number of gradu- 
ates at the last commencement ; the salaries paid to each of the 
Officers of the College during the last year; and the general 
prospects of the Institution, was read and ordered to be filed. 

A report from the Committee appointed at the last meeting 
of the Board on the state of the finances and expenditures in 
pursuance of the 6th resolution adopted at that meeting was 
received, read, and accepted. 

On motion of Dr. P. Randall, Esq., Resolved, that it is 
expedient to report on the request of the Regents as made in 
their communication to this Board on the 20th day of January 
last, and that a Committee of three be appointed to prepare said 
report and to submit the same to this Board for consideration. 

Messrs. Randall, Morse, and Williams were thereupon 
appointed said Committee. 

On motion of Dr. Yates, Resolved, that the unoccupied lands 
around the College belonging to the Institution be apportioned 
to such Students as are desirous to exercise themselves in agri- 
culture and labour during the hours of relaxation from study, 
that the same be enclosed and ploughed for their use so far as 
it may be needed, and that the same be subject to the direction 
of the Prudential Committee. 

The Committee appointed to submit to the Board an answer 
to the communication received from the Regents of the Uni- 
versity presented a Report in answer thereto, which Report 
was read and adopted. 

On motion of N. P. Randall, Esq., Resolved, that the Treas- 



1830] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 215 

urer make an abstract from the financial report made by him 
in August last, shewing the amount of the funds of the Col- 
lege, and their situation, to be attached to the report this day- 
made respecting the financial concerns of the College ; and that 
the said report and abstract, together with the Report adopted 
by the Board in answer to the communication of the Regents 
of the University be by him transmitted to that Body. . . . 

Report of the Trustees to the Regents, 
March 17, 1830. 

From the papers of President Davis, in the College Library 

The Trustees of H. Coll. acknowledge the receipt of a com- 
munication from Regents of the University of the state of 
N. Y. with a copy of a resolution of the House of Assembly, 
requesting a detailed statement of the affairs of the Institu- 
tion, shewing among other things, the grounds of the difficul- 
ties under which it has been suffering, the number of Students 
therein during the past year, the number of graduates at the 
last commencement; the salaries paid to each of the officers 
during the last year; and its general prospect. 

The Trustees without reference to, or denying the right of 
the Regents or the Legislature to make this call upon them, 
most cheerfully proceed to the task of answering the resolu- 
tion. The statement of the Treasurer herewith transmitted 
will give a general view of the financial condition of the Col- 
lege, and if more particular information is desired it will not 
be withheld. 

As to the grounds of the difficulties in relation to the Insti- 
tution, the Trustees do not deem it discreet to attempt any 
enumeration of them all; but among the most prominent, the 
Trustees would mention the facts, that the office of Professor 
of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy was vacant from 
Nov. 1827 to May 1829; and the office of Professor of Lan- 
guages was vacant from May 1828 to August 1829. 

In consequence of these vacancies many of the students then 



216 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1830 

in the College left it, and resorted to other institutions. Others 
who would probably have joined the College were prevented 
from entering it. An unfortunate difference of opinion among 
the Trustees as to the most advantageous method of conduct- 
ing the affairs of the College and between a part of the Board 
of Trustees and the Faculty of the College had probably a 
tendency further to check the prosperity of the institution. 

The said Trustees further report that, so far as respects 
the number of students and graduates the last year, the present 
number of students, the officers of the College and their sal- 
aries, the amount of the funds of the College, the number and 
condition of the buildings, they refer to their annual report 
made in February last. 

The salaries paid to the officers of the College during the 
year ending in August last were: to the President $1800, to 
one tutor $400, and assistant during the two first terms of the 
year $165, and to a professor of Mathematics and Natural 
Philosophy from May last, at the rate of $800 per annum ; 
these gentlemen being the only officers of College receiving 
compensation during the last year. 

The Trustees have the satisfaction further to report, that, 
since August last, the officers appointed as Professors of 
Mathematics and Natural Philosophy, of the Languages, and 
also of Chemistry have been and are now severally engaged in 
the active discharge of their official duties, and that the insti- 
tution appears to be rapidly rising from the depressed state into 
which it had fallen. 

From the low state of its funds, however, the Trustees do 
not feel themselves warranted in employing the number of 
Professors they might otherwise think desirable, yet they think 
that the great experience of the President, Dr. Davis, his high 
reputation as an instructor, assisted as he is by the other able 
men associated with him in the faculty, warrant them in the 
belief that the institution cannot fail of affording opportunities 
for acquiring a classical education highly advantageous to the 
student and satisfactory to the public, and that notwithstand- 



1830] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 217 

ing the cloud that has lately obscured its prospects, it cannot 
fail under the fostering care of its present officers, to obtain 
the confidence of the community and a high rank among the 
literary institutions of our country. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of March 30, 1830. 
. . . A special communication was received from the 
Trustees of Hamilton College, in answer to the call made on 
them by the Regents, for information required by a resolution 
of the honorable the Assembly of the 15th of January last, 
which having been read, it was thereupon ordered, that a copy 
of the said Communication be transmitted to the honorable the 
Assembly. ... 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Fifty-eighth Meeting. August 24th, 1830. 

The committee appointed at the last meeting of the Board 
to enquire into the expediency of enlarging the number of 
branches taught in this Institution and to enquire generally as 
to the expediency of increasing the number of Professors and 
of making with their consent a new assignment of their duties ; 
and, in case this committee shall think it expedient to make an 
increase of Professors, that they nominate a candidate or candi- 
dates for the office ; made a Report which was read, and the 
Resolutions accompanying the same were thereupon, after 
undergoing discussion, adopted, as follows, viz. : 

1st. Resolved, that the following be considered the perma- 
nent Professorships in Hamilton College, and that they be filled 
with Professors as speedily as practicable ; viz. 

1. Of Ancient Languages. 

2. Of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy, with En- 

gineering. 

3. Of Moral and Political Science. 



218 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1830 

4. Of the Physical Sciences, viz. Chemistry, Geology, 

Botany, and Zoology. 

5. Rhetorick and Belleslettres. 

6. Of Divinity. 

2d. Resolved, that provision be made to fill the Professor- 
ships of the Physical Sciences and of Rhetorick and Belles- 
lettres at this meeting, so that their courses of instruction may 
commence if possible with the ensuing year. 

A communication was received from Mr. Theophilus Smith, 
who was at the last meeting of the Board elected Professor 
of Rhetorick and Belleslettres, declining the acceptance of said 
appointment. 

The Board then proceeded to elect a Professor of Rhetorick 
and Belleslettres, and on receiving and counting the ballots, 
Professor Haddock of Dartmouth College was declared to be 
duly elected to said office. Thereupon it was Resolved that 
Professor Haddock, of Dartmouth College, be and he hereby 
is appointed Professor of Rhetorick and Belleslettres in Hamil- 
ton College, with a salary of eight hundred dollars per annum. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Williams, Norton, and Davis be a 
committee to notify Professor Haddock of his appointment 
and ascertain whether he accepts of said office ; and if he 
decline, that they be instructed to correspond with Mr. John 
Wayland, of Providence, in Rhode Island, and ascertain 
whether he will, if elected, accept of said office; and should be 
decline, that they learn of Joel W. Newton, of Amherst, in 
Massachusetts, whether he will consent to become a candidate 
for said office ; and in case he should decline ; that they then 
recommend to this Board at its next meeting some suitable 
person to fill said office who will consent to accept the same. 

Mr. Hart introduced a Resolution which after being dis- 
cussed and amended was adopted as follows : 

Whereas Doct. Josiah Noyes has signified his willingness 
to resign his office as Professor of Chemistry in Hamilton 
College to the Board of Trustees; therefore. Resolved, that 



18311 OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 219 



his resignation be accepted; and the office is hereby declared 
to be vacant ; and also that the Treasurer pay all arrears due 
to him. 

The Board then proceeded to elect a Professor of the Physi- 
cal Sciences, and on receiving and counting the ballots James 
Hadley, M.D., of Fairfield, in the County of Herkimer, was 
declared to be duly elected. Thereupon it was 

Resolved, that James Hadley, M.D., of Fairfield, in the 
County of Herkimer, be and he hereby is appointed Professor 
of Physical Sciences in Hamilton College. 

Resolved, that a committee be appointed to notify Dr. Had- 
ley of his appointment and to confer with him on the subject 
of his salary, and agree as to the time and manner in which 
he will enter upon the duties of his office; and that the com- 
mittee be authorized to promise him a sum not exceeding eight 
hundred dollars per annum. 

Messrs. Morse and Yates appointed committee. . . . 

On motion of Mr. Morse, Resolved, that the Treasurer be 
directed to convert the securities and lands of the Corpora- 
tion, exclusive of the College Buildings and premises, into 
money as fast as the same can be done without loss, and pro- 
ceed to pay its accredited debts as fast as he receives the money. 

Resolved, that if money cannot be raised in the way pointed 
out in the above Resolution sufficiently fast to discharge the 
debts, that the Treasurer be directed to borrow on the credit 
of the Corporation a sum sufficient for the purpose. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Sixtieth Meeting. June 7, 1831. 

The committee appointed to notify Professor Haddock of 
his election to the office of Professor of Rhetorick and Belles- 
lettres reported that they had attended to the duties assigned 
them, and had received from him a communication declining 
to accept the appointment. 

The Committee further reported that they had corresponded 
with Mr. John Wayland, of Brown University, and had ascer- 
tained that, if elected, he would accept of said office. 



220 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1831 

The Board thereupon proceeded to elect by ballot a Pro- 
fessor of Rhetorick and Belleslettres ; and upon counting the 
ballots it appeared that Mr. John Wayland was unanimously 
elected. 

A report from the committee appointed to notify Dr. Had- 
ley of his election to fill the office of Professor of the Physical 
Sciences, shewing the terms on which he accepted said appoint- 
ment, was then read and ordered to be filed. 

Resolved, that a committee of five be appointed to consider 
the propriety of appointing a Professor of Divinity in Hamil- 
ton College at the next meeting of the Board, and in case they 
shall think it advisable to make such appointment, that they 
recommend a suitable person to fill said Professorship. Messrs. 
Davis, A. Yates, Coe, and Ledyard were appointed said 
committee. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Sixty-first Meeting. August 22,, 1831. 

The committee appointed to examine and report to the 
Board at its present meeting upon the expediency of electing 
a Professor of Divinity in Hamilton College reported in writ- 
ing, which report concluded with proposing for adoption three 
resolutions ; the first of which, being read and considered, was 
adopted as follows : 

Resolved, that the title of Professor of Divinity be changed 
to that of Pastoral Professor, and that the special duties 
assigned to the proposed Professor shall be to give instruction 
on the inspiration of the Scriptures, and to such as desire it 
a critical knowledge of the original Languages ; also practical 
and experimental religion on the Sabbath according to the 
usage in the observance of that day, and at other times, both 
in private and in public, as occasion may require ; and to dis- 
charge such other duties as are required of a Pastor towards 
his flock. 

On motion of Mr. Morse, the following resolution was 
adopted as a substitute for the remaining resolutions offered 
by the committee : 



1831] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 221 

Resolved, that as soon as funds can be raised for the purpose 
the Professorship be filled. 

The committee appointed to enquire into the expediency of 
appointing an Executive or Prudential Committee with certain 
specified powers, etc., reported the following Resolutions, 
which, being read and considered, were adopted : 

Resolved, that there be annually appointed a Committee 
consisting of five members of the Board, to be denominated 
the Executive Committee, who shall be clothed with the follow- 
ing powers during the intervals between the meetings of the 
Board : 

First; To appoint the Tutors. 

Second ; To devise ways and means for increasing the funds, 
and with the concurrence of the Board to execute them. 

Third ; To appoint an Agent or Agents to solicit and receive 
donations for the endowment of some or all of the Professor- 
ships and for other necessary purposes. 

Fourth ; To report the names of suitable persons to fill 
vacancies in the Faculty. 

Fifth; To procure temporary instruction in case of vacan- 
cies in any of the Professorships. 

Sixth; To make all repairs to the buildings necessary to 
their preservation from immediate injury; not, however, to 
exceed five hundred dollars in any one year. 

Seventh; To make arrangements for the meetings of the 
Board and for Commencements. 

Eighth ; To expend the monies appropriated for the increase 
of the Library, Geological and Mineralogical Cabinets, and for 
the Philosophical and Chemical apparatus and for the improve- 
ment of the College grounds. 

Ninth; To recommend at every meeting of the Board such 
measures for adoption as in the opinion of the Committee the 
best interests of the Institution require. 

Tenth; To take care that all the personal property of the 
College is preserved and kept in good condition. 



222 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1831 

Messrs. Davis, Williams, Knox, Goodrich, and Bristoll were 
appointed said committee. . . . 

Resolved, that a sum not exceeding one hundred and fifty 
dollars be appropriated for the purpose of purchasing a com- 
plete set of levelling instruments. . . . 

Proceedings of a Meeting of Citizens of Utica. 
December 8, 1831. 

From the papers of President Davis, in the College Library 

At a meeting of the citizens of the village of Utica, held 
pursuant to previous notice, at the court room in the academy 
in said village on Tuesday, December 8th, 1831, for the pur- 
pose of taking into consideration the condition and prospects 
of Hamilton College and to adopt such measures in relation 
thereto as should be deemed proper ; Joseph Kirkland, Esqr. 
was called to the chair and Thomas H. Hubbard and Horace 
Butler were appointed secretaries. 

The following preamble and resolution were offered for 
consideration by Henry Seymour, Esqr. and unanimously 
adopted : 

Whereas, it appears from the representations of the presi- 
dent & trustees of Hamilton College, that this institution, 
which for the last two years has been rapidly recovering from 
a declension which for a time had threatened it with utter 
desolation, is embarrassed for the want of sufficient funds to 
answer its future usefulness and prosperity. 

On motion of Mr. Kellogg Hurlburt, it was resolved that 
it is the interest and the duty as it is within the power of this 
community to raise the requisite funds to place this institution 
on a permanent basis & to insure its future usefulness and 
prosperity. 

The following resolution was then offered by Charles P. 
Kirkland, Esqr. and unanimously adopted. 

Resolved, that for the purpose of discharging the duty 
which we feel to be incumbent on us in relation to this institu- 



1832] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 223 

tion, we will use our efforts to procure in this town the sub- 
scription of a sufficient sum to establish a professorship therein. 

And whereas the most important interests of society are 
identified with the encouragement and support of our schools 
& literary institutions: Therefore resolved, as the sense of this 
meeting, that Hamilton College, hitherto the hope and pride 
of this central portion of the state, is entitled to the patronage 
and support of this community. 

On motion of D. Wager Esqr. it was Resolved, that a com- 
mittee of twenty-five persons be appointed to solicit subscrip- 
tions for the purposes aforesaid. Whereupon the following 
gentlemen were appointed to compose committee, viz : Joshua 
A. Spencer, Ephraim Hart, Rudolph Snyder, John H. Ostrom, 
Nicholas Devereux, Wm. Williams, Sylvester Doolittle, Hiram 
Denio, Samuel G. Walker, Moses Bagg, John E. Hinman, 
James Dean, Silas D. Childs, Rutger B. Miller, Theodore S. 
Gold, Alvin McAllister, Jene W. Doolittle, Elisha Wells, 
Milton Brayton, Samuel P. Lyman, Kellogg Hurlburt, Henry 
Seymour, Augustin G. Danby, David Wager, and Charles P. 
Kirkland. 

It was further resolved, that the proceedings of this meeting 
be signed by the chairman and secretaries, and published. 

Joseph Kirkland, Chr. 
Horace Butler "1 „ 
T.H. Hubbard/ Secretaries 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of February 28, 1832. 
The Regents of the University respectfully Report, That 
they have received Reports, during the present year, from 
Union, Geneva and Hamilton Colleges. . . . 

The report of Hamilton College shows the whole number 
of students, during the present year, to have been ninety three. 
From a special report of one of the trustees, it appears that the 
condition and prospects of this institution are decidedly im- 



224 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1832 

proved; that the course of study has been enlarged, and the 
standard of admission elevated ; that " particular care has been 
taken to furnish competent and thorough instruction in the 
physical sciences and mathematics, and on subjects of a prac- 
tical nature allied to them;" and that an effort has been made, 
with so much success already as to leave little doubt of its 
accomplishment, to raise by voluntary subscription, a sum not 
less than forty thousand dollars, for the endowment of three 
or more of its professorships. 

It is exceedingly gratifying to see this institution, after the 
series of discouragements to which it has been subjected, 
assuming an honorable rank among the other colleges of the 
state. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Sixty-second Meeting. August 22, 1832. 

. . . Whereas, in consequence of the prevailing sickness 
of the season, and the great alarm from danger in the assem- 
blage of a large collection of people, the Faculty of Hamilton 
College have determined to dispense with the usual exercises 
of the annual Commencement, on motion, 

Resolved, that this Board approve of the determination of 
the Faculty in dispensing with the usual annual exercises of 
Commencement for the above reason assigned. 

Resolved, that a sum sufficient to pay all the debts due to 
individuals be borrowed on the security of such of the prop- 
erty of this Corporation as may be necessary for the purpose, 
except the College edifices and lands, and tliat a Committee 
of three be appointed to negotiate for the requisite loan; and 
further, that when such loan shall have been procured, the 
requisite mortgages and papers to secure such money shall 
be executed, and the Seal of this Corporation affixed thereto 
by the Treasurer of this Board. . . . 

Resolved, that Henry Davis, D.D., be appointed Agent of 
the Board for the purpose of receiving donations to its funds, 
with power, in his discretion, to appoint a sub-agent or agents, 
and that this Board will hereafter give to the agent or sub- 
agents a reasonable compensation. 



1832] OF HAMILTO N COLLEGE 225 

Resolved, that the Senior Trustee and Secretary be author- 
ized to give the Treasurer a Power of Attorney authorizing 
him to prosecute and recover, or settle, secure, and compound 
all Debts due this Board ; and to employ Assistants under him ; 
and affix the Seal of the Corporation to such Power. . . . 

Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to apply to the 
Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York, 
or to the Legislature, for an appropriation of three thousand 
dollars per year for five years, to meet the annual expense of 
the College, and that Messrs. Morse, Spencer, and Davis be 
the said Committee. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Sixty-third Meeting. December i8, 1832. 

. . . The will of William H. Maynard having been read, 
on motion of Mr. Knox the following Resolutions were 
adopted : 

Resolved, that Messrs. Morse, Spencer, and Yates be a Com- 
mittee to take into consideration the Bequest of the late 
William Hale Maynard to this Board, and to report what 
measures are, in the judgment of the Committee, necessary 
to effectuate the object of the donor. 

Resolved, that the Trustees of Hamilton College, in com- 
mon with their fellow citizens, do most deeply deplore the 
loss society has sustained by the death of the late William 
Hale Maynard, and that they respectfully tender to his sur- 
viving relatives their sympathies and condolence in this 
affliction. . . . 

Resolved, that in order to effectuate the intention of the 
deceased as expressed in his last Will and Testament, a new 
Professorship be instituted in this College, to be denominated 
" The Maynard Professorship of Law, Civil Polity, and Politi- 
cal Economy." 

Resolved, that the incumbent of this Professorship be 
required to combine with his Lectures on the Science of Law 
such practical and useful information as shall fully comport 
15 



226 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1833 

with the desires expressed by the Testator, and also be required 
to frame a course of instruction that will impart to his pupils : 
a knowledge of the Constitution of the United States and of 
the several states composing the confederacy ; a general knov/1- 
edge of the Laws of Nations; the Common Law, as far as 
it is of any binding effect in this State ; the Statute Laws of 
this State; the practical method of procedure in the trans- 
action of business in the higher courts of this State ; Law 
Ethics; a general outline of the jurisdiction of Courts of 
Eouity, and of the practice and of the leading principles which 
controul their decisions; a general knowledge of the Laws of 
Congress, and of the organization and practice of the Courts 
of the United States. 

Resolved, that the Professor be required to cause his pupils 
to write essays on subjects falling within his department, and 
also to exercise them in the argument before him of supposed 
cases and points of law unsettled and disputable. 

Resolved, that Doctor Yates, Messrs. Keep, Morse, Gerrit 
Smith, and John B, Yates be a Committee to meet the Citi- 
zens of Utica at such time and place as the Committee shall 
designate, to lay before them the condition and claims of Llam- 
ilton College, and to endeavor to secure their efficient coopera- 
tion in raising forty thousand Dollars, agreeably to a former 
resolution of this Board. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of February 27, 1833. 
. . . By the Report of Hamilton College it appears, that 
the Rev. Henry Davis has resigned the office of President of 
the College, and the trustees have elected the Rev. Ichabod S. 
Spencer his successor, and hopes are entertained that he will 
accept the office. The number of students belonging to the 
College, at the date of the report, was eighty nine. The trus- 
tees state, that since their last report, the Hon. \\'illiam H. 
Maynard has died and left by his will a legacy of twenty thou- 
sand dollars, with a portion of the residue of his estate, of 



1833] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 227 

uncertain amount, to the trustees, as a perpetual fund for the 
endowment of a professorship of Law in said College. They 
have instituted a professorship, and will appoint a professor, 
and carry into effect the munificent intentions of the testator, 
as soon as they shall come into possession of the funds desig- 
nated for that purpose. The trustees continue their efforts, 
with prospects of success, to raise by subscription forty thou- 
sand dollars for the support of the faculty. The prospects of 
this institution have been gradually improving since the year 
1829, and are now such, as to induce the belief, tliat it will be 
permanently useful. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Sixty- fourth Meeting. March 13, 1833. 

. . . The Revd. Dr. Davis laid before the Board a letter 
from the Revd. Ichabod S. Spencer, dated Brooklyn, Febru- 
ary 2, 1833, in which he states that, after mature deliberation, 
he felt constrained to decline the Presidency of Hamilton 
College. 

Whereupon, Resolved, that the Reverend Sereno E. Dwight, 
of the City of New Haven, in the State of Connecticut, be and 
he hereby is appointed President of Hamilton College. . . . 

Resolved, that a Finance Committee be appointed, to con- 
sist of the President-elect, the Treasurer, and Messrs. Bristol, 
Hubbard, and Knox; and that said Committee be convened 
as early after the arrival of the President elect as may be con- 
venient; and that they be authorised to appoint two or more 
Agents, in addition to those already appointed by the Board, 
to visit such sections of this State as they shall judge expedient, 
to procure contributions to a permanent fund, for the support 
of the Faculty. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Sixty-fifth Meeting. April 16, 1833. 
Resolved, that Messrs. Kirkland, Hubbard, and Aikin be a 
Committee to examine and report to this Board at their next 



228 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1833 

meeting whether any, if any, and what alterations ought to be 
made in the Charter of Hamilton College. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Adams, Aikin, and Knox, together 
with the President, be a committee to digest and report at the 
next meeting a plan of religious instruction to be pursued in 
this College; and that Mr. G. Smith be respectfully requested 
to place in the hands of said committee the plan on this sub- 
ject drawn up by him and presented to this board at the last 
meeting. 

Resolved, unanimously, that Gerritt Smith be associated with 
the President of the College as Agent to obtain the requisite 
funds to place the Institution on a permanent footing, and 
that this Board earnestly request Mr. Smith to accept of this 
trust. 

•••c Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Sixty-sixth Meeting. June 4, 1833. 

The Committee appointed at the last meeting to digest a 
plan of religious instruction to be pursued in the College, made 
through their Chairman, the Revd Mr Adams, a detailed 
Report, which was accepted. . . . 

Resolved, that the Revd Mr Adams be requested to furnish 
the Secretary of the Board with a copy of the papers read by 
him to the Board this day in vindication of the principles of 
the Report submitted by the Committee of which he is Chair- 
man, and that the Treasurer pay the expense of the writing of 
said copy, and that it be kept for the use of the Trustees and 
Faculty of the College. 

Resolved, that the Report submitted by the Committee of 
which Revd M^ Adams is Chairman be adopted in its general 
views and principles, and that the said Report be placed in the 
hands of the Faculty of the College, to report at the next meet- 
ing of the Board such modifications in the details thereof as 
may to them appear desirable. 



1834] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 229 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Sixty-seventh Meeting. August 13, 1833. 

. . . Resolved, that the Treasurer be, and he is hereby 
authorized, by and with the advice of the Executive Com- 
mittee, to sell, at such time and in such manner as to him and 
them shall seem most advantageous, all the lands and real 
estate (except the College grounds) belonging to Hamilton 
College, and on such sale to execute conveyances for the same. 

Resolved, that the Treasurer, with the advice of the Execu- 
tive Committee, be authorized to give the notes of the Corpora- 
tion to such of its creditors as require it, provided that those 
debts are such as are not contested, and the amount liquidated. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Dwight, Spencer, Morse, and Beards- 
ley be a Committee to petition the Legislature to relieve the 
wants of the College. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of February 26, 1834. 

. . . From the report of Hamilton College it appears that 
its faculty consists of a president, four professors and three 
tutors; and that the number of students matriculated in the 
College is 103. 

The trustees represent that the legacy bequeathed to them 
for the endowment of a law professorship in their college has 
not yet come to their hands. That their productive funds, 
applicable to the payment of their current expenses, having 
become nearly exhausted, they have for sometime been solicit- 
ing donations to enable them to raise $50,000 in aid of their 
exhausted finances ; that more than $28,000 of that sum " have 
been subscribed and promised in the County of Oneida, and 
upwards of $7000 more by some of the trustees and individuals 
in three western towns; so that the trustees have confident 
expectations that the whole sum will be speedily raised." 
But should such expectations not be realized, and no relief be 



230 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1834 

obtained from other sources, the trustees represent " that their 
institution will be seriously embarrassed in its pecuniary opera- 
tions/'' and its future usefulness much diminished. . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Seventieth Meeting. August 12, 1834. 

. . . Resolved, that the Treasurer be, and he hereby is, 
authorized to confess a judgment to any one of the creditors 
of this Corporation in trust for himself and all the other 
creditors for a sum equal to all the debts owing by said Cor- 
poration, or for such less sum as shall be deemed advisable 
by him. 

Resolved, that Messrs Knox, Hubbard, and Spencer be a 
Committee to confer with the creditors of Hamilton College 
and make an effort to satisfy them without confessing judg- 
ment. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Morse, Dwight, Hubbard, Spencer, 
and Gerritt Smith be a Committee to confer with the Hon. 
John C. Spencer on the subject of the establishment of the 
Law School, and the Maynard Professorship, and the relation 
which it shall bear toward the College ; the powers and privi- 
leges of the Professor thereof, and of the government and dis- 
cipline to which its pupils shall be subject ; and of his becom- 
ing the incumbent thereof, and of the terms and conditions 
on which he will undertake the discharge of the duties of such 
Professorship ; and that they report at the next meeting of this 
Board a place for conducting the School and a code of laws 
for the government thereof. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Seventy-first Meeting. November 12, 1834. 
. . . Resolved, that Messrs. Spencer, Dwight, and Kirk- 
land be a Committee to confer with the Trustees of Union 
College, or with a Committee of said Trustees, in relation to 
the claims which this Board believes it has against Union 
College. 



1835] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 231 

Resolved, that the same gentlemen be appointed a Com- 
mittee to devise ways and means, if possible, to pay the balance 
due to the creditors of Hamilton College. 

Resolved, that in the opinion of the Board of Trustees of 
Hamilton College, it is important to the interests of that 
Institution that a Post Office be established on College Hill; 
and that the Postmaster General be respectfully requested to 
establish a Post Office at that place to be called Hamilton 
College Post Office. 

Resolved, that the Executive Committee inquire into the 
expediency of disposing of house lots to such Professors as 
may wish to erect dwelling houses for their private residences ; 
and also into the expediency of inserting a clause in the con- 
veyances by which this Board can repossess itself of the lots 
on paying the appraised value of the building; the said Com- 
mittee to report in writing at the next meeting. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of February 24, 1835. 

. . . From the report of Hamilton College it appears that 
its present faculty consists of a president, four professors 
and a tutor, and that the whole number of students belonging 
to the college is 115, of whom 55 have entered during the 
present collegiate year. 

The trustees of the college represent that during the two 
last years they " caused a subscription to be circulated in many 
parts of the State, for the purpose of raising $50,000 as a 
permanent fund, the interest of which should be applied t6- 
wards the payment of the salaries of the officers of the 
college " ; that their efforts to raise such a sum have finally 
been crowned with success, the subscription being filled up, 
and the amount subscribed having thereby become payable 
in four equal annual instalments. When the whole fund shall 
be collected and invested, the trustees represent that the in- 
come from it, together with the ordinary tuition money of 
the college, will be sufficient to pay the salaries of all their 
present officers. 



232 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1835 

It appears from the report that " the property bequeathed 
to the institution by the late William H. Maynard, for the 
endowment of a law professorship, has not yet come into the 
hands of the trustees, and that no further steps have been 
taken towards the appointment of an incumbent to fill that 
office." 

To show the great increase in the patronage and support 
of this institution during the last five years, the trustees state 
in their report that their receipts from tuition money which 
in 1829 amounted to only $289.88, and in 1830 to $1,185.79, 
now amount to $3,812.91 for a single year. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Seventy-third Meeting. July 28, 1835. 

Resolved, that Messrs John B. Yates, Gerritt Smith, and 
Thomas H. Hubbard be a Committee to endeavor to procure 
on loan a sum of money sufficient to pay the whole or any 
part of the debts of this Institution, the principal of which 
shall not be payable in less than five years ; and that the said 
Committee shall have power to mortgage any of the real estate 
of the Institution, and that the President and Secretary be 
authorized to execute any writing for that purpose and affix 
the seal of this Corporation thereto. 

Resolved, that the Faculty of the College be requested to 
report to this Board at its next meeting their views in relation 
to removing the College to Utica. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Seventy-fourth Meeting. September 20, 1835. 

A memorial of the Association of Alumni of Hamilton 

College, on the subject of the removal of the College to Utica, 

held at Clinton the 29th of July, was read by the Secretary, 

on which no order was taken. 

Also was read a paper purporting to be a memorial of a 
County Convention, held at Clinton on the ist instant, on the 



1835] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 233 

same subject; on which the following Resolution was passed, 
nem. con. : 

Resolved, that the paper now presented, purporting to be 
the proceedings of a meeting of the Citizens of the Count}^ 
of Oneida, be returned by the Secretary to the person who 
forwarded the same to this Board. 

Resolved, unanimously, that the question of the removal of 
the College ought not to be further agitated. 

Resolved, unanimously, that it is expedient to establish the 
Law Professorship of this College at Utica, and inasmuch as 
this cannot be done without an act of the Legislature author- 
izing it, therefore. Resolved, that the Board of Trustees will 
petition the Legislature to pass an act conferring such 
authority. 

Resolved, that Messrs. Spencer, Beardsley, Kirkland, G. 
Smith, and Hubbard be a Committee to prepare and present 
a memorial to the Legislature in behalf of this Board praying 
for the passage of such a law. 

Resolved, that the Secretary publish the foregoing Resolu- 
tions, passed unanimously. 

The following communication was presented by Rev. Sereno 
E. Dwight, tendering his resignation of the office of President 
of Hamilton College : 
" Gentlemen : 

When the Presidency of Hamilton College was tendered to 
me, in March 1833, I knew that the Institution was bankrupt 
in its character, but I did not know that it was bankrupt in 
its fortunes. At your meeting, April i6th, 1833, in answer 
to one of my preliminary questions, I was assured by you that 
more tlian six thousand dollars of the College funds still re- 
mained; and as the annual expenses exceeded the current 
revenue from the quarter-bills about $3000, I was told that 
this residue would enable you to proceed two years at least 
without running in debt. This assurance was given by you 
in good faith, and yet I need not inform you, it was wholly 
unfounded. The College, instead of having one farthing of 



234 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1835 

funds, was then bankrupt for more than $10,000, making a 
difference of at least $16,000 between the reported and the 
actual state of its resources. It was this assurance on your 
part alone which determined me in accepting the office. I 
thought that in two years an adequate Fund might be raised 
for the support of the Faculty, and the College thus rescued 
from ruin. 

At your meeting on the 4th of June following I learned 
with surprise that the College was wholly without funds, and 
must close its concerns unless I entered upon and prosecuted 
with success the business of raising a Fund of $50,000 within 
one year. Had I not already removed my effects to Clinton, 
I should then, as I told you, have relinquished the office. As 
the case stood, however, in obedience to your directions and 
in submission to a stern necessity, I entered on the task of 
raising that Fund during a year (from July ist, 1833 ^o July 
I St, 1834) ever memorable as a year of gloom and perplexity 
and universal pecuniary embarrassment. I need not remind 
you of the unceasing toil and mortification and self-denial 
attending the enterprize, nor of the universal conviction of 
your own body as well as of the community at large that it 
must fail. It is sufficient to say that, owing in an important 
degree to the untiring exertions of one of. your own number, 
through the blessing of God it was crowned with success. At 
your meeting June 19, 1834, however, your agents had 
scarcely reported that the subscription for the $50,000 Fund 
was filled, before it was officially announced to us that the 
College debts, beyond any means of paying them, amounted 
to at least one-quarter of that Fund. 

This embarrassed state of your Treasury has perplexed us 
in all our relations. Expenditures absolutely necessary for 
the reputation and thrift of the College have been rendered 
impracticable. The salaries of the officers have been only 
half paid. When I took the office, the sum of $500 was voted 
for necessary repairs on the President's house ; yet these re- 
pairs could not be. and have not been made. 



1835] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 235 

Owing to these facts, I and my family have now for two 
years and a half been unable to keep house, and have been 
compelled to board out under circumstances of great em- 
barrassment. Yet, during the perplexities one cheering cir- 
cumstance has occurred, and it ought to be mentioned with 
gratitude. Notwithstanding all our difficulties, the College 
Catalogue has shown regular increase in the number of 
students, and in the collegiate year just closed it has exceeded 
the largest number ever found in the College in its most pros- 
perous state. 

But at this present time we are met with still greater diffi- 
culties. The debts now amounts to at least $16,000 and we 
have nothing to pay it with but the College buildings and 
grounds. Of this debt, $9000 are already in judgments, and 
executions to that amount may at any moment be levied on the 
buildings, and the College broken up. Only two sources of 
relief from these embarrassments have been thought of; the 
claim on Union College, and the removal of the College to 
Utica. The claim on Union College can probably be enforced 
only after a protracted lawsuit, the issue of which is un- 
certain. As to the removal of the College, my views are 
known. That the College can never flourish in its present loca- 
tion without large funds and that it cannot exist at all under 
a heavy load of debt is my deliberate opinion. Had this Board 
in its wisdom by a full and nearly unanimous vote resolved 
on the measure of removal, on the conditions proposed, and 
had the Legislature subsequently sanctioned it, I am satisfied, 
not only that the embarrassments of the College would have 
been removed, but that it would soon have become a large 
and flourishing seminary. The vote you have just taken leaves 
no room to hope for such a consummation ; while the very 
agitation of the question will, if the removal does not take 
place, seriously diminish the number of the students and the 
amount of the revenue. 

In this untoward crisis, the question what I ought myself to 
do is forced upon my immediate attention. Had the actual 



236 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1835 

state of the funds been correctly stated to me on the i6th of 
April, 1833; had I then taken the office (which I certainly 
should not have done) and were I now to relinquish it; the 
charge might perhaps be fastened upon me of putting my hand 
to the plough and looking back. But I did not agree to make 
bricks without straw. We now owe about $16,000 above any 
and all our means of payment, and must increase this debt the 
current year to $19,000 or $20,000; whereas had the report of 
the funds then made to me been correct, we should now owe 
nothing. I state these facts, Gentlemen, on this occasion, not 
because they are new to you, but because those now on the 
stage and those who may come after us ought to know that 
the office which I so lately occupied was not relinquished with- 
out sufficient reasons. It ought also to be known, if the 
College came to an end, not only that I was not, but who was, 
the cause of its ruin. 1 now therefore tender you my resigna- 
tion of the J Residency of Hamilton College, and request your 
acceptance of the same. 

I ought in justice to myself to observe that my subscription 
of $500 to the Permanent Fund was made only on the supposi- 
tion that I should remain connected with the College. I leave 
it to you to decide, after what I did to raise the Fund, whether 
the payment of it ought to be enforced. 

With the best wishes for the welfare of the College and for 
your own prosperity, collectively and individually, I am, 
Gentlemen, most respectfully, 

Your Friend and obedt. Servant, 

S. E. Dwight. 
Clinton, Sept. 2d, 1835." 

President Dwight having withdrawn, the following Resolu- 
tions were adopted : 

Resolved, that the subscription of the late President Sereno 
E. Dwight to the Permanent Fund be remitted, and that the 
same be supplied out of the general funds. 



1835] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 237 

Resolved, that in consideration of the valuable services 
rendered by President Dwight to this College, this Board do 
make a grant to him of the sum of one thousand dollars, and 
that the Treasurer execute to him the corporate bond there- 
for payable in two years with interest annually. 

Resolved, that the thanks of this Board be tendered to Presi- 
dent Dwight for the valuable services rendered by him to this 
Institution, and that our best wishes attend him for his future 
prosperity and happiness. 

Resolved, that the Secretary communicate to President 
Dwight a copy of the foregoing Resolutions. 

Resolved, that out of the first monies received by the 
Treasurer, pertaining to the disposable fund, he pay to the 
Rev. Sereno E. Dwight the sum of five hundred dollars 
towards his salary now due. 

Resolved, unanimously, that the Treasurer be and he is 
hereby authorized to execute the bond of the Corporation 
and a mortgage on all its real estate for the sum of ten thou- 
sand dollars to any person or persons who will loan to the 
College that amount in money payable in five years with 
interest annually. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Seventy-fifth Meeting. November 17, 1835. 

. . . Resolved, that this Board will now proceed to the 
choice of a President of the College. On counting the votes, 
it appeared that the Revd Joseph Penney, D.D., of North- 
ampton, Massachusetts, was unanimously chosen. 

Resolved, that the President of this College be required to 
report at each meeting of this Board immediately preceding 
Commencement on the condition of the College, and that all 
other members of the Faculty be required to report to the 
President one month before said meeting on the state of their 
respective departments. . . . 



238 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1836 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of February 26, 1836. 
. . . The trustees of Hamilton College report, that its 
present faculty consists of a President, four professors, and 
a tutor; and that the whole number of students belonging to 
the college is now 102. The trustees state, that no part of 
the property bequeathed to them by the late William H. May- 
nard, for the endowment of a law Professorship, has yet 
come to their hands. ... 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Seventy-sixth Meeting. April 20, 1836. 

. . . Resolved, that Dr Penney and Mr Cliase be a com- 
mittee to digest a plan for the establishment of scholar- 
ships in this College for the defraying of a part or the whole 
of the expenses of indigent Students, and to solicit by Agents 
the endowment of the same by individuals or associations, 
provided that no regulations of this committee contravene any 
of the existing laws of the Institution. 

Whereas, the present rapid increase and the still more rapid 
anticipated increase in the number of the Students of Hamil- 
ton College make it indispensable that the North College edifice 
be completed, and whereas the other edifices of the College 
are in a somewhat dilapidated state and need to be repaired 
with the least necessary delay, and whereas the College grounds 
need further improvement, and whereas the funds of the 
College are permanent and the expenditure of any more there- 
of than the revenue is directly forbidden, and whereas this 
revenue is all needed to pay the salaries of the Officers ; 

Resolved, therefore, that this Board again appeal to a 
generous public in behalf of the College, and an attempt to 
raise a fund of $5000 for the accomplishment of the above 
important purposes. 



1838] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 239 



Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Seventy-seventh Meeting. July 26, 1836. 

. . . Some inquiries being made in reference to the claims 
on Union College, it was 

Resolved, that Messrs Morse, Denio, Hubbard, and Penney 
be a committee to confer with the Trustees of Union College 
on the subject of a basis for the settlement of the claim of 
this Institution against Union College, with full powers to 
agree on the same. 

Resolved, tliat in case of the failure of said negotiation the 
committee be directed to employ J. A. Spencer, Esq., to 
institute a suit against said College. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 

Seventy-eighth Meeting. August 5, 1836. 
. . . Resolved, that the Resolution of this Board passed 
2<1 September last, declaring it expedient to establish the Law 
Professorship of this College at Utica, and to petition the 
Legislature to pass an act conferring authority to do so, be 
rescinded. . . . 

Laws of the State of New York, 1838. 

Chapter 237. 

AN ACT to appropriate the income of the United States de- 
posite fund to the purposes of education and the diffu- 
sion of knowledge. 

Passed April 17, 1838. 

The People of the State of New York, represented in Senate 
and Assembly, do enact as follows: 

§ I. The income arising from the investment of the 
moneys deposited by the United States with the State of New 
York, according to the act of congress, entitled "An act to 



240 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1839 



regulate the deposite of the iml)hc moneys," passed June 23, 
1836, shall, after deducting the charges thereon, he expended 
for the purposes of education and diffusion of knowledge, in 
the manner hereinafter provided. 

******** 

§ 7. Three thousand dollars of the income aforesaid shall, 
for the period of five years and until otherwise directed 
by law, be annually paid to Hamilton College, to be applied 
exclusively by said college to the payment of its professors 
and teachers. 

Joseph Penney to the Board of Trustees. 

Hamilton College, 23 January, 1839. 
Gentlemen : 

Three years have elapsed last month since by your appoint- 
ment I entered on the duties of the Presidency of this Institu- 
tion. In so doing I resigned a situation of very uncommon 
advantages and comforts to myself and family, for one of 
many privations and diftkulties. But this I did cheerfully, 
from the interest I took in the cause of Education, and my 
reliance on the reasonable cooperation of the Board of 
Trustees and the citizens generally of this region. My hope 
was that by a course of cautious reformation and faithful 
labour in the interior of the Institution, and by a conciliatory 
but firm and sober course towards the community without, 
the College might live down existing prejudices and become a 
blessing to the country and deserving of its patronage. I was 
led to believe that former jealousies about the location of the 
College and other adverse influences foreign to the merits of 
its management would trouble it no more. I expected cordial 
cooperation from all my colleagues in correcting, in a kind 
and prudent manner, whatever in the internal affairs of the 
Institution might afford the public any reasonable cause to 
complain. In these hopes I have been disappointed. I find 



1839] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 241 

myself impeded in every department of the interests of the 
Collei^e by obstacles which I had no reason to anticipate, and 
over which I have no control. Having no wish to aggravate 
the difficulties of the College, I think it unnecessary to go into 
a specification of these obstacles. They are known to many of 
the Board, and shall be freely communicated if the interests 
of the College can be thereby promoted. In the mean time 
I regard it equally inconsistent with what I owe to my friends, 
to the cause of education, and to myself, to occupy the office 
you have assigned me, with so many drawbacks on my 
means of meeting respectably and successfully its weighty 
responsibilities. 

I therefore beg leave. Gentlemen, most respectfully to resign 
into your hands the office of the Presidency of Hamilton 
College, with which you have honored me, at and after the 
first day of May next ensuing. I have thought it due to the 
Board and important to the interests of the College thus to 
give reasonable notice of my purpose, so that, if possible, a 
successor may be obtained before I leave the Institution. And 
let me add that any service that I can render the College in 
this or any other department of its interests shall be always 
most cheerfully rendered. 

I trust the personal sacrifices and disappointments to myself 
in this resignation will exonerate me from the charge of re- 
garding the welfare of the Institution with indifference. I 
shall still fondly cherish the hope that by some happy disposal 
of the present adverse influences, and in some hands more 
competent than mine, the College may yet surmount the diffi- 
culties under which it labours, and fully accomplish the design 
of its founders. 

Permit me, finally, to express my grateful acknowledgments 
for the personal kindness I have experienced from every 
member of the Board, and my lasting esteem and gratitude 
toward those gentlemen who, in the midst of so many dis- 
couragements, have given the most substantial proofs of dis- 
16 



242 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1842 

interested devotion to the cause of education here — one of 
the first and most vital of the interests of our country. 
I am, Gentlemen, most respectfully, 

Your obedient Servant, 
To the Trustees of Joseph Penney. 

Hamilton College. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
Eighty-ninth Meeting. July 26, 1842. 
. . . Mr. Spencer, as chairman of the committee in rela- 
tion to the claims of this Institution on Union College, made 
a written report relative to the final settlement of said claims, 
as follows: 

The Committee of the Trustees of Hamilton College to 
whom was referred the subject of the claims or demands of 
the said Trustees against the Trustees of Union College aris- 
ing on a covenant entered into between said Colleges, growing 
out of the operations of the drawing of the Literature Lot- 
teries of this state, respectfully reports: 

That the whole claim has been amicably adjusted and 
settled by the surrender by the Trustees of Union College of 
the bond of the Trustees of Hamilton College given to them 
for seven thousand dollars, amounting, with interest, at the 
time of the surrender, to more than ten thousand dollars ; and 
by the payment of five thousand dollars in money, and the 
securing the payment of other five thousand dollars in five 
equal annual instalments by the hand of the said Trustees of 
Union College and the annual interest thereon, by the bond of 
the Revd Eliphalet Nott, D.D., President of said College : both 
of which securities are believed by your committee to be good 
and ample. Upon the receipt of such surrender, payment, 
and security, a release of all claims and demands on the part 
of the Trustees of Hamilton College upon the Trustees of 
Union College was duly executed and delivered by our Treas- 
urer to the Treasurer of Union College, 

All which is respectfully submitted. 

Joshua A. Spencer, Chairman. 



1855] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 243 

Laws of the State of New York, 1855. 

Chapter 310. 

AN ACT relating to the Law Department of Hamilton College. 

Passed April 12, 1855. 

The People of the State of New York, represented in Senate 
and Assembly, do enact as follows: 

§ I. The trustees of Hamilton College shall prescribe suit- 
able times for the public examination of students connected 
with the law department in said institution, and upon applica- 
tion made by said trustees or by their authority to the supreme 
court, either at a general term thereof, or at a special term, 
to be holden for that purpose, if necessary, the court shall 
appoint a committee to consist of not less than three respect- 
able counsellors of said court, (any two of whom may pro- 
ceed with the examination,) to attend the examination in 
respect to such applicants then being connected with said law 
department, as shall, pursuant to the regulations adopted by 
the said trustees, be candidates for the degree of bachelor of 
laws, and who shall apply to the said examiners for the 
certificate hereinafter mentioned. 

§ 2. It shall be the duty of said committee carefully and 
thoroughly to examine the applicants for such certificate, in 
respect to their learning, ability and qualifications for admis- 
sion as attorneys and counsellors in the supreme court, and 
to ascertain the length of time during which each applicant 
has pursued the study of law in this State, under competent 
instruction. They shall further require from each applicant 
full and satisfactory evidence of good moral character, and 
that his deportment during his connection with such institu- 
tion has been orderly and upright. 

§ 3. Upon the production to the court of the certificate of 
such examiners, or any two of them, stating the fact of such 
examination, that the person named in said certificate was 
recommended as qualified for the degree of bachelor of laws, 
that he appeared to be of sufficient learning and ability to be 



244 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1855 

qualified for admission to practice as an attorney and coun- 
sellor of the supreme court, and also that he had furnished 
satisfactory evidence of good moral character, the court may 
make an order for the admission of such person to practice 
as an attorney and counsellor of the supreme court, which 
order shall be in all respects as valid and effectual as though 
such person had been examined at a general term in open 
court. This order may be made at any special term of said 
court held in and for the county of Oneida, or at a general 
term thereof. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 

Meeting of July 6, 1855. 

. . . The Secretary reported the following laws, or refer- 
ences to law, passed at the last session (1855) ^^ proper to be 
brought to the notice of the Regents: . . . 

Chapter 310: An Act relating to the hnv department of 
Hamilton College, (passed April 12. 1855.) . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
One Hundred and Eleventh Meeting. July 24, 1855. 

Resolved, that a committee be appointed for the 
purpose of carrying into full effect the resolutions of this 
Board passed at the meeting held on the 27th day of August, 
1820, for the removal of the remains of the Rev^ Samuel 
Kirkland and the Indian Chief Schenandoah from the place 
of their interment to the College Cemetery; that said com- 
mittee be authorized to make the removal (with the assent of 
the surviving members of Mr. Kirkland's family) ; and also 
that they cause a suitable monument to be erected to the 
memory of the said Revd Samuel Kirkland, who is justly 
regarded as the Founder as well as the Benefactor of this 
College ; and that the removal and the erection of the monu- 
ment be accompanied with such ceremonies as to the com- 
mittee may appear appropriate. And that a sum not exceeding 
$300, mentioned in said resolution of August, 1820, be re- 
appropriated in order to carry this resolution into effect. Also 



1857] OF HAM ILTON COLLEGE 245 

Resolved, that the committee be authorized to remove the 
remains of the members of the family and direct descendants 
of Mr. Kirkland who were buried on his homestead or in the 
village burying ground to the said cemetery to be reinterred 
by his side. 

The Chairman announced as the committee Mr. Wetmore, 
Dr. Vermilye, and Mr. WilHams. . . . 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
One Hundred and Sixteenth Meeting. July 15, 1857. 

. . . Dr. Fowler, chairman of the special committee of 
five in relation to the Presidency, made a report in writing as 
follows : 

The committee to whom was referred the communication 
of the President of the College, announcing his purpose to 
resign his place, beg leave to report, that they had an inter- 
view with Dr. North soon after their appointment, and that he 
designated commencement or an early day thereafter for the 
period of his resignation, provided the arrearages in his salary 
were paid at that time, the resignation to take effect at the 
close of the approaching vacation. The committee unani- 
mously and respectfully recommend that Dr. North's salary 
as President be continued until the close of the financial year, 
April 15th, 1858, a measure which, while it is justified by fre- 
quent precedents, harmonises with the feelings of all the friends 
of the College towards a long tried and faithful officer. 

And on motion of Judge Bacon, Resolved, that the report 
of the committee be accepted. . . . 

July 16, 1857. 

. . . The Secretary presented and read a paper of which 
the following is a copy : 

To the Trustees of Hamilton College 
Gentlemen : 

In accordance with the intention expressed to the Board 
in a former communication, I hereby resign my office as the 



246 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1858 

President of Hamilton College. With the office of President, 
I also resign my place as a member of the Executive Com- 
mittee, and as Auditor of the Treasurer's accounts. 

It is my desire that this resignation shall take effect on the 
first of September next. 

With good wishes for the continued prosperity of the Col- 
lege, and with sentiments of respect towards those in its 
Boards of Trust and Instruction with whom I have so long 
labored for its advancement, I am, Gentlemen, 

Your obedient Servant, 

Simeon North. 

On motion of Dr. Fowler, Resolved, that the resignation of 
the Presidency of the College and of his membership of the 
Executive Committee, tendered by Rev. Simeon North, D.D., 
LL.D., is hereby accepted. 

Resolved, that we avail ourselves of this opportunity to 
express our sense of the assiduity with which Dr. North has 
devoted himself to the fulfillment of the duties of the various 
official relations he has sustained to this College for a period 
of twenty-eight years, our gratification at the uninterrupted 
harmony which has existed between him and his associates in 
the Faculty and Board of Trustees, and our high regard for 
him as a friend, a christian gentleman, and a scholar. 

Resolved, that the Secretary be instructed to transmit a copy 
of the foregoing resolution to Dr. North. 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
One Hundred and Eighteenth Meeting. July 6, 1858. 

Dr. Fowler, in behalf of the committee, submitted 
a series of resolutions, and remarks were made by Dr. Condit, 
Mr. Woolworth, Judge Denio, Mr. Brayton, and others. 

On motion. Resolved, that Rev. Samuel W. Fisher, D.D., 
be and he is hereby elected President of Hamilton College. 

Resolved, that the duties of the President for the time being 
continue the same which have been discharged by his prede- 



1858] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 247 

cessors ; subject to the right of this Board hereafter to modify 
them in such manner as to embrace the Pastorate and Instruc- 
tion in Moral Philosophy ; and that in the special efforts which 
may be made to increase the funds and extend the usefulness 
of the College, he will be expected to take such earnest and 
efficient part as his position and influence shall render 
appropriate. 

Resolved, that the Salary of the President elect be fixed at 
two thousand dollars a year, and that the same commence 
with his entrance on the duties of his office, and be payable in 
three payments to be made on the fifteenth day of December, 
April, and August of each year. 

Resolved, that this Board deem it highly important that a 
dwelling and premises should be provided and owned by the 
College suitable for the residence of the President, and that 
this subject shall receive proper attention so soon as the 
finances of the Institution will permit. 

On motion of Judge Denio, Resolved, that this Board 
approve the action of the Executive Committee touching the 
Observatory and a Director therefor, and that the three reso- 
lutions passed by the said committee be and the same are 
hereby ratified and adopted. 

The three resolutions referred to above are in the words 
following : 

Resolved, that Dr. C. H. F. Peters, of Albany, be and he is 
hereby appointed to take charge of the Observatory at Hamil- 
ton College for one year, with a salary of six hundred dol- 
lars, payable tri-annually from the proceeds of the special sub- 
scription made for that purpose and not otherwise; this 
appointment being subject to the order of the Board of Trus- 
tees at their next meeting. 

Resolved, that Dr. Peters be and he is hereby requested to 
enter upon the discharge of the duties pertaining to his office 
at as early a date as practicable and not later than the first of 
May next; to proceed to Canastota in order to forward the 
completion of the telescope and to take such measures as may 



248 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1858 

be advisable to place the Observatory in working operation, 
with the least possible delay. 

Resolved, that no expenses be incurred on account of the 
Observatory except such as can be paid from the proceeds of 
good subscriptions actually made before such expenses are 
incurred. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of October 14, 1858. 
A memorial from the Trustees of Hamilton Col- 
lege, representing that they had erected an Astronomical 
Observatory, and had furnished it with a large and powerful 
telescope, and other instruments for astronomical observations, 
and asking that they may be permitted to determine the longi- 
tude of their observatory and of such other places in the state 
as the Regents may designate, was presented and read. 

After extended discussion on the subject of the memorial, 
it was, on motion of Mr Benedict, Resolved: That the appli- 
cation of Hamilton College be laid on the table, and the whole 
subject postponed to the annual meeting in January at which 
time the Trustees of the college shall have an opportunity to 
be heard before the Board in relation to the subject of their 
memorial ; and that they be requested in the meantime to com- 
municate to this Board such specification of what said college 
propose to do, of their power to do it, and the compensation 
which they will deem proper, as may be necessary to enable 
this board to act in the premises. . . . 

Proceedings of the Regents. 
Meeting of January 13, 1859. 
. . . The memorial of the Trustees of Hamilton College 
in regard to the determinations of longitude presented at the 
meeting of the Board, Oct. 14, 1858, and made the special 
order for the present meeting was called up. Judge Denio was 
heard in behalf of the College. He submitted a proposal of 



1860] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 249 

the Executive Committee of the Trustees " to determine the 
longitude of the College observatory within one year, perhaps 
by a less time, will be sufficient for one thousand dollars." 
After full discussion it was on motion of the Rev. Dr. Camp- 
bell unanimously resolved, That One thousand Dollars be 
appropriated to the Trustees of Hamilton College from the 
appropriation of Chap. 784, laws of 1857, *' To the Regents 
of the University to defray the expenses of ascertaining the 
Meridian of such important locality or localities as said board 
shall prescribe." 

It was on motion further 
Resolved, That Mr Pruyn be a Committee to perfect such 
arrangements with the Trustees of the College as may be 
necessary for executing the preceding resolutions. 

The Libraries of the Union and Phoenix Societies. 

In the year i860 the old literary societies transferred their libraries to 
the College. The contracts are identical in form. That of the Union 
Society is given here, from the original document in the College Library. 

These Articles of agreement made and entered into this 
seventh day of November i860, by and between the Union 
Society of Hamilton College by Charles H. Roys, George H. 
Starr, David L. Kiehle, Anson J. Upson, and Oren Root, the 
Trustees of said Society of the first part, and the Trustees of 
Hamilton College by O. S. Williams their Treasurer of the 
second part witness: 

The Union Society hereby sells transfers and delivers its 
Library in trust to the said Trustees of Hamilton College 
on the following conditions : 

I St The College to take possession of said Library and 
remove it, and put it up, and suitably arrange it in the Rooms 
of the College Library; make a full and complete catalogue 
thereof, and have the whole ready for use with all con- 
venient speed. On the Catalogue, and the labels placed in 
the books, they shall be designated as belonging to the Union 
Society Library. 



250 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [I860 

2^ The College Library shall be open on Tuesday and 
Friday of each week in term time, and for one hour at a time, 
for drawing books; each member of the Union Society may 
draw books from any part of the Library free of charge, and 
may retain five volumes at once according to the rules of the 
Librarv, but no student unless he be a member of the Union 
or Phoenix Society shall be permitted to draw any book which 
shall belong to the Library of either of said Societies. 

3d The College to preserve said Library in good order and 
condition, and with the same care which shall be bestowed on 
the original College Library; but if such care is exercised, the 
College shall not be liable for any damage or loss which may 
happen to said Union Library. 

4th The College shall pay to the Union Society or its 
creditors the several sums in which it is indebted to them, 
amounting to $147.63 or thereabouts according to the schedule 
hereunto annexed, as soon after this contract shall be perfected 
as may be convenient, and on or before the first day of January 
next. And this payment, and the labor and care to be bestowed 
and performed as hereinafter stated shall form the considera- 
tion for the transfer of said Library above provided for. 

5th The said Union Society may have the said Library 
returned and retransferred to it at any time within ten years 
hereafter, by giving one year's notice in writing of a resolution 
of said Society requesting the same to be done, and by paying 
to the College the said amount of $147.63 or thereabouts, with 
annual interest from the date of the payment thereof by the 
College. 

6th The College shall grant to the Union Society a suitable 
and sufficient portion of the present Debating Rooms of the 
Union and Phoenix Societies free of charge, to be fitted up 
and used by said Society for a Hall for its meetings. 

Second; The Trustees of Hamilton College hereby accept 
said Library on the conditions above stated, and on their part 
agree to perform and abide by the same. 



1861] OF HAMIL TON COLLEGE 251 

Witness the said Union Society by its Trustees, and the 
Trustees of Hamilton College by their Treasurer the day and 
year first above written. 

The Union Society, By 

Chas H. Roys. 
Geo. H. Starr 
D. L. Kiehle 
A. J. Upson 
O. Root 

Proceedings of the Trustees. 
One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Meeting. July 17, 1S61. 

. . . On motion of Dr. Fowler, Resolved, that the Sec- 
retary be directed to inform Dr. Peters that, while the Board 
highly appreciate the services he renders, the funds of the 
College do not admit of any appropriation from them towards 
the payment of his salary and the expenses of the observatory, 
and that it will be impossible to make him any further com- 
pensation than such as he may receive from the friends of 
Science and from the Board of Regents for special services 
performed by him on their behalf ; and on like motion, 

Resolved, that if there should occur a vacancy in the Direc- 
torship of the Observatory during the current year, that the 
Executive Committee be and they are hereby authorized to 
make some temporary and economical arrangement for its 
care and safe keeping and use until the next meeting of the 
Board. 

The Executive Committee having made a report touching 
the transfer to the College of the Libraries of the Union and 
Phoenix Societies and their action thereon ; on motion of Judge 
Gridley 

Resolved, that the action of the Executive Committee be 
and the same hereby is approved, and that it be ratified and 
adopted as the action of this Board in the premises. 



252 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1865 

On motion of Mr. Wetmore, the following preamble and 
resolutions were unanimously adopted : 

Whereas Professor Root, Rev. A. D. Gridley, and Mr. John 
C. Hastings, who have been the Curators of the College 
grounds for some years past, have tendered their resignations. 

Resolved, that the same be accepted. 

Resolved, that these gentlemen have rendered a valuable 
and lasting service to the College by the system of improve- 
ments which they commenced ; improvements which have 
already grown to such maturity that they have entirely changed 
the external appearance of the College grounds, and rendered 
them a place of great beauty and attraction. For their faith- 
ful and disinterested services we tender to them our hearty 
thanks, and give them the assurance that what they have com- 
menced and carried forward with so much labor and fidelity, 
we will have continued to their full completion. 

Resolved, that the Secretary be and he hereby is instructed 
to transmit to each of the above named gentlemen a copy of 
the foregoing preamble and resolutions. 

Proceedings of the Regents. 

Meeting of May 14, 1862. 

. . . Special Committee to attend the Se mi-Centennial 
of Hamilton College, the Governor, Mr. Hawley, the Chan- 
cellor, the Rev. Dr. Campbell, Mr. Leavenworth. . . . 

Laws of the State of New York, 1865. 
Chapter 641. 

AN ACT making appropriations for certain public and chari- 
table institutions. 

Passed May i, 1865, by a two-thirds vote. 

The People of the State of New York, represented in Senate 
and Assembly, do enact as follows: 

Section i. The treasurer shall pay on the warrant of the 
comptroller, out of moneys in the treasury not otherwise appro- 



1868] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 253 

priated, the several amounts specified in this act, to the persons 
duly authorized to receive the same. 

Section 2. . . . For Hamilton College, for an arrear- 
age of a former appropriation, fifteen hundred dollars. . . . 

Laws of the State of New York, 1866. 

Chapter 748. 

AN ACT making appropriations for certain expenses of Gov- 
ermnent, and to supply deficiencies in former appropriations. 

Passed April 21, 1866; three-fifths being present. 

The People of the State of New York, represented in Senate 
and Assembly, do enact as follows: 

Section i. The treasurer shall pay from the several funds 
here specified, to the several persons indicated in this act, the 
amounts named, or such part of those amounts as shall be 
necessary to accomplish in full the purpose designed by the 
appropriations. . . . 

Section 2. The following amounts are hereby appropriated 
for the several objects specified, namely: 

For Hamilton College, in lieu of the same amount appro- 
priated in eighteen hundred and sixty-five and unpaid, one 
thousand five hundred dollars. 

The Campus of Hamilton College. 

From A. J. Downing's Treatise on the Theory and Practice of Land- 
scape Gardening. Sixth edition. 1859. Supplement by Henry Winthrop 
Sargent, pages 571-572. 

Another phase of improvement in our rural taste is the in- 
creasing care and attention bestowed upon the grounds attached 
to our colleges, hospitals, and other public buildings. 

Mr. Downing, we think, did much to develop this in the 
taste he displayed in the arrangement of the grounds attached 
to the Smithsonian Institute and La Fayette Square, in Wash- 
ington. We are rapidly passing from the straight, formal 



254 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1868 

walks, and the rectangular plantations of the past, into the 
more harmonious and pleasing arrangements of the modern 
school. Clinton Park and Botanic Garden, which contains 
within its limits Hamilton College, at Clinton, N. Y., is a 
very successful illustration of this improvement. Fifteen or 
twenty acres have been enclosed within the College Park, and 
entirely laid out in the most skillful and artistic manner. 
Broad and extensive lawns are divided by graceful walks 
throughout the whole extent ; trees and shrubs, of every 
description flourishing in this climate, have been planted in 
groups, masses, or as single specimens. 

A section of the ground will be used as a Botanic Garden, 
in which trees, shrubs, and flowers will be arranged according 
to their several families. 

The humanizing influence of harmonious and beautiful 
surroundings upon every one, is beyond all question ; and it 
was truly said by the Rev. Mr. Gridley, to whose taste and 
energy much of the success of the Clinton Park is due. that 
" it is no vain thing to suppose that the minds and hearts of 
students will be benefited by daily walks through such grounds, 
and in view of such a varied and wide-spread landscape : these 
peaceful shades and sunny slopes and laughing streams — 
this hum of cheerful industry — the music of distant church 
bells, and the glimpses and echoes here caught of the great 
thoroughfares of business and travel that mark the great 
world without — these skies, ever changing and ever beautiful, 
and the seasons rolling through them — what mind can be 
brought into the midst of such scenes without deriving from 
them essential profit ? " 

Report of the Curators of the College Campus. 

By referring to foregoing diagram of the college plot, it 
will be seen that in the year 1853 the college domain consisted 
of about thirty-three acres of land. Its buildings were the 
present Chapel, three College Halls, the Cabinet, the old 
President's house and its outbuildings, three wood sheds, one 
in rear of each college, and a barn in rear of the Cabinet. 



V. 



o o 



zh^'s^ ^^'^"^ 



^o..H 




Jt- 




THE CAMPUS IN 1868 
From a Map by Professor Oren Root, Sr 



1. Site of Hamilton Oneida Academy, 1793-1832. 

2. Boarding House (Old President's House), 1802. 

3. South College, 1812. 



5. Chapel. 182S-1<S27. 

6. Middle College, 1825. 

7. North College, 1825, finished 1844-1845. 

8. Observatory, 1854. 

9. Gymnasium, 1853. 

10. Chemical Laboratory, 1855. 

11. Library, 1866. 

12. Old Kirkland House, 1794. 



( 



1868] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 255 

The President's house stood nearly in front of the South 
College, a little south of the front, and the woodhouse, barn 
and garden belonging thereto extended along the Vernon road, 
there being an entrance to the College grounds between the 
barn and garden. The rectangular lot of four acres lying 
immediately around the College Halls was enclosed in front 
with a low stone wall surmounted by a wooden fence. Straight 
walks four or five feet wide ran in front of the Colleges and 
the Chapel and from these several buildings to each of the 
front gates. 

In front of the north and middle Colleges, at the time they 
were built, the surface of the earth was removed at considerable 
expense to the depth of three or four feet and the ground 
leveled leaving it in a condition that made it difficult to grow 
trees planted in this part of the grounds. This College j^ard 
was planted somewhat sparsely with trees. The row of Elms 
near the front fence was set out by Othniel Williams (Senior) 
at that time Treasurer of the College. Most of the other trees 
were planted subsequently under the supervision of Presidents 
Penney and North. The lot east of the road in front of the 
Campus was used as a pasture and was destitute of trees, 
except a few which bordered the walk leading to the Cemetery. 
To this it should be added that there was a row of Lombardy 
Poplars on the east side of the road just mentioned and 
another behind the Colleges, these trees with others along the 
hillside road having been planted in the year 1805, under the 
superintendence of Rev. Samuel Kirkland. Such was the 
condition of the College grounds in the year 1853, when the 
Faculty and several friends of the Institution in this vicinity 
began to consider the importance and feasibility of improving 
the same. 

In the autumn of that year, several meetings of gentlemen 
were held at the house of President North to consult as to 
what alterations, if any, were required in the College premises, 
together with the probable cost of making them. As the result 
of these consultations, a plan for remodeling the grounds, 
presented by Mr. John C. Hastings of Clinton, was adopted, 



256 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1868 

and a committee was appointed to carry that plan into execu- 
tion. 

This committee consisted of Prof. Oren Root, J. C. Hast- 
ings, Esq. and Rev. A. D. Gridley. At the same time 
subscriptions were made by the Faculty and friends of the 
College in Clinton, amounting to one thousand dollars 
($i,ooo), for the purpose of enabling the Committee to make 
a beginning in the work which had been projected. 

The following are the names of the donors to this fund : 

Presdt. Simeon North 1 

Hon. Josiah Bacon I 

Rev. Robt. G. Vermilye [ 

Treas. O. S. Williams, Esq. J 
Prof. Charles Avery 
Prof. Oren Root 
Prof. Edward North 
Prof. Theodore W. Dwight 
Rev. Benjamin W. Dwight 
Rev. A. D. Gridley 
John C. Hastings 

At a subsequent meeting of the Trustees of the College the 
above Committee for improving the grounds were requested 
to serve as permanent Curators of the College Grounds. 

The first step in the improvements thus inaugurated was the 
taking away of the fence and the removal of a large quantity 
of stone in the walk in front of the Colleges to the site of the 
present Observatory building. These stone were used in the 
construction of the foundation walls of that building. A large 
amount of earth was removed in filling the cellar where the 
President's house stood, and in surface grading in filling up 
low places in various parts of the ground and in leveling down 
the land into a smooth slope, from the line of fence removed, 
to the lot on the east side of the road. Grading having been 
finished, here and in other parts of the ground, attention was 
given to draining, a work much needed, and which was done 



1868] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 257 

at considerable expense of time and labor. The road in front 
of the Colleges, being about lOO feet wide at the south end 
and diminishing to 60 feet in front of the North College, by 
permission of the Road Commissioner was now reduced in 
width, and its straight lines changed, so as to make them con- 
form to the general plan of reconstruction. The President's 
House with its outbuildings next took up the line of march to 
the site they now occupy on the Vernon Road. The Presi- 
dential well is still extant. At this stage of the improvements 
the Trustees purchased seven acres of land for the benefit of 
the college on the north side of the east lot. Also Prof. Ed- 
ward North donated to the College half an acre of land for 
the enlargement of the Cemetery, which was laid out anew 
according to a plan furnished by Mr. J. C. Hastings. 

The work thus far, together with the removal of the row 
of large poplar trees in front of the College, and the making 
of beds for the new roads and paths and bordering them with 
turf, was accomplished in the fall of 1853 and the summer of 
1854. An excellent material for covering these walks was 
found in the College lands in the red shale lying on the north- 
west border of the ground. To protect the grounds from 
street cattle a wire fence was placed on each side of the road 
in front of the Colleges, and the other portions of the Campus 
were enclosed with hedges of buckthorn and wooden fences. 
The wire fence has since proved almost an entire failure, while 
the hedges are to this day their own best commendation. In 
planting of the grounds, especially the unoccupied east lot, it 
was a leading object of the Committee to secure as great a 
variety of trees as should be found practicable. They wished 
to obtain a specimen of every desirable tree and shrub, decidu- 
ous and evergreen, which might be expected to prove hardy in 
the climate of central New York. These trees and plants they 
proposed to arrange with a special view to landscape effect, 
though with some reference to a botanical classification. Ac- 
cordingly liberal purchases were made from various nurseries, 
which with donations from friends of the institution, enabled 
17 



258 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1868 

the Committee to carry out their plans with some degree of 
satisfaction. The different varieties of the oak, ash, elm, 
maple, etc., were set mostly in family groups ; w^hile of the 
evergreens, in addition to a general distribution through the 
grounds, a special collection was begun, which is designed to 
include every conifer hardy enough to endure our northern 
winters. For several years past, also, a memorial tree lias been 
planted by each Senior Class, the planting being accompanied 
with suitable exercises and ceremonies. The work on these 
grounds progressed under the care of the Curators until Dr. 
Fisher was appointed President, having been in their care about 
four years when he claimed the supervision of the grounds. 
The Curators accordingly sent in their resignation to the Board 
of Trustees. Their resignation was accepted with the as- 
surance on the part of the Trustees that the improvements in 
accordance with the plan adopted, should be carried forward. 
In 1867 Dr. Fisher resigned the office of President of the 
College. During the time the grounds were under the care of 
Dr. Fisher, very little was done towards improving the surface 
of the grounds, and the lines of the roads and walks were 
neglected and some were ploughed over and lost. 

Many of the trees originally planted by the Curators were 
injured and some destroyed, and although a considerable 
number of trees were planted under his direction, but few of 
them, owing to bad planting and other causes, are now living. 

In 1868 the former Curators of the grounds were by the 
Board of Trustees requested to reassume the care of the 
grounds. In complying with this request the Curators do so, 
with a desire so far as the means are furnished them, to carry 
forward the improvements first contemplated. 

As a postcript to this historical sketch, it may be added that 
the building formerly kno\<'n as " Hamilton Oneida Academy " 
which stood midway between the South College and Chapel 
was taken down in the year 1832. The lines of its foundation 
walls with their several compartments may now be traced dur- 



1875] OF HAMILTON COLLEGE 259 

ing a mid summer drouth in the parched grass growing above 
them, where there is not much depth of earth. 

The Gymnasium was erected in the year 1853. 

Astronomical Observatory in 1854. 

Chemical Laboratory in 1855. 

The work of embellishing the grounds of Hamilton College 
IS far from being completed. There are many other valuable 
trees and shrubs which should be added to our collection. The 
surface of the land should be graded to a lawn like smoothness, 
and provision should be made for a more frequent mowing of 
the grass in summer. Classic Vases, Sun Dials, Fountains 
with jets d'eau, and rustic seats or tasteful kiosks might well 
add their attractions to the simpler charms of nature, and 
these things are sure to be enjoyed in the good time coming. 

Addendum: The principal Donors of trees referred to in 
the foregoing sketch, were Charles Downing of Newburgh; 
Hovey & Co., Boston, Mass. ; Henry W. Sargent, Fishkill ; 
Frost & Co., Hooks & Co., Ellwanger & Barry, Rochester; 
Wm. D. Walcott, New York Mills; John C. Hastings, Prof. 
Edward North and Prof. Oren Root and Rev. A. D. Gridley 
of Clinton ; John J. Smith, Philadelphia. 

Clinton, May 12th, 1868. 

Oren Root "1 

A. D. Gridley ■ Curators 

J. C. Hastings j 

Proceedings of the Regents. 

Meeting of January 14, 1875. 

. . The Vice Chancellor, from the Standing Commit- 
tee on Incorporations, submitted an application from the Trus- 
tees of Hamilton College for such an amendment of the Char- 
ter of the College as will provide for the election of one Trustee 
annuallv bv the Alumni of the said College. The Committee 



260 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY [1888 

find that the application is in conformity with the law and the 
ordinance of the Regents, and recommend that the same be 
granted and that an ordinance be issued to that effect, under the 
seal of the University. . . . 

Laws of the State of New York, 1888. 

Chapter 128. 

AN ACT to extend and de-fine the powers of the trustees of 
Hamilton College in regard to the investment of its funds. 

Became a law without the approval of the Governor, in accord- 
ance with the provisions of article four, section nine of the 
Constitution, April 12, 1888. Passed, three-fifths being 
present. 

The People of the State of New York, represented in Seriate 
and Assembly, do enact as follows: 

Section i. The board of trustees of Hamilton College is 
hereby authorized in addition to any mode of investment now 
authorized by law, to invest the funds of said college, in its 
discretion, in any of the securities hereinafter named, namely : 

In the stocks and bonds, or other interest bearing obligations 
of any State in the Union that has not within ten years pre- 
vious to making such investment, defaulted in the payment 
of any part of either principal or interest of any debt author- 
ized by any legislature of said State to be contracted; in the 
stocks and bonds of any city in this State issued pursuant to 
the authority of any law of this State ; in bonds and mort- 
gages on unencumbered real estate situate in any of the fol- 
lowing named States, namely, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 
Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Illi- 
nois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and worth at least twice 
the amount loaned thereon. 

Section 2. Nothing in this act shall be so construed as to 
contravene any limitations expressed or implied by any donor 
of any such funds in regard to the investment or use thereof. 

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately. 



APPENDIX 



ADDRESS OF HORATIO SEYMOUR AT THE DEDICATION OF 
THE MONUMENT TO SAMUEL KIRKLAND 

ADDRESS OF ELIHU ROOT AT THE UNVEILING OF THE 
STATUE OF ALEXANDER HAMILTON 



THE DEDICATION OF THE KIRKLAND 
MONUMENT 

Address of Horatio Seymour 

June 25, 1873. 

At the erection of this monument to the memory of the 
Indian missionary, under the direction of a College founded 
by him to educate the men of that race as well as of the whites 
who then lived on either side of a line running near where 
v/e now stand, and which marked the boundaries of their 
respective properties, the scene would be incomplete if there 
had been no one here of the lineage of the Iroquois. I am 
glad that those who by their courage and conduct won for 
themselves the title of the " Romans of the West " are repre- 
sented by some who speak their language, and recall by their 
faces and forms the memory of the tribes who once held 
dominion over these hills and valleys by the lordly titles of 
wisdom and of might. The chief interest in the character 
of Kirkland grows out of his labor in behalf of the confederate 
nations of Indians, who, in their day, held the destinies of 
this country in their hands. It is well too that descendants 
of Sconondoa, whose stalwart form moulders here by the 
side of his Christian teacher, meet by the graves of their 
fathers the descendants of Kirkland. Thus, after the lapse 
of many years, those of the blood and lineage of the warrior 
and of the Christian missionary come together at a spot so 
sacred to them and at a time and an occasion of such deep 
interest. The spirits of the dead are made glad as they wit- 
ness the scene. 

No just estimate can be put upon the labors of him to whom 
this monument is dedicated, until we understand the character, 
power and influence of those for whom he lived and toiled. 
At this time the Indians are looked upon by many with mingled 
feelings of abhorrence and disgust. There is a growing feel- 
ing that the heroism which was once conceded to them existed 

[203] 



264 APPENDIX 



only in the imaginations of the novehsts or the fancy of poets. 
I shall not attempt any defense of the race, but we must bear 
in mind that on this broad continent with all its diversity of 
climate and varieties of mountains and plains, lakes and rivers, 
their several tribes differ as much in mind and morals as do 
the white nationalities of Europe. To do justice to the memory 
of Kirkland, I shall speak of those with whom he was brought 
in contact, and over whom he exerted a great and benign 
influence. They were savages, fierce, wild and cruel, but they 
were also a heroic and patriotic people. They were brave and 
skillful warriors, wise legislators, keen diplomatists, and elo- 
quent orators. In all these respects they towered above all 
other tribes upon this continent. They held in subjection a 
vast extent of country, and in proportion to their numbers 
they conquered more enemies and held control of more terri- 
tory by force of arms than any people of which history gives 
account since the days of Alexander the Great. By the testi- 
mony of friends and enemies alike, they are shown to have 
been the foremost tribes within the present limits of the United 
States. Until Europeans came, their boast that they " were 
men excelling all other men," was not a vain one so far as 
wisdom, diplomacy and arms were concerned. The colonial 
historian Smith says of them in 1750: 

These of all those innumerable tribes of savages which inhabit the 
northern part of America are of more importance to us and the French, 
both on account of their vicinity and warlike disposition. 

In the correspondence of the French colonial officials with 

Louis the Great, it is said : 

No people in the world, perhaps, have higher notions of military glory 
than these Indians. All the surrounding nations have felt the effects of 
their prowess, and many not only become their tributaries, but are so 
subjugated to their power, that without their consent they dare not com- 
mence either peace or war. 

Golden, in his history, printed in London, in 1747, says: 

The Five Nations think themselves by nature superior to the rest of 
mankind, and call themselves " Onguekonwe," that is, men surpassing all 
others. This opinion, which they take care to cultivate in their children. 



APPENDIX 265 



gives them that courage which has been so terrible to all nations of 
North America, and they have taken such care to impress the same opinion 
of their people on all their neighbors, that they on all occasions yield the 
most submissive obedience to them. I have been told by old men of New- 
England, who remembered the time when the Mohawks made war on 
their Indians, that as soon as a single Mohawk was discovered in the 
countn.'. these Indians raised a cry from hill to hill, "A Mohawk! a 
Mohawk ! " upon which they all fled like sheep before wolves, without at- 
tempting to make the least resistance, whatever odds were on their side. 
All the nations round them have for many years entirely submitted to 
them and pay a yearly tribute to them in wampum. 

A gentleman of this State, and a descendant of one of its 
most honored families, has given me a statement derived from 
the highest authority, which shows the mastery they had 
gained over the coast tribes. After the whites had formed 
large settlements about the harbor of New York and its vicin- 
ity, the Long Island Indians sold some of their lands to their 
civilized neighbors, without the permission of their Iroquois 
masters. It was difficult to punish this act by war without 
making trouble with the whites. A single Mohawk warrior 
took upon himself the duty of vindicating the honor of his 
people. Armed with his tomahawk and decorated with his 
war-paint, he trod the forest paths along the banks of the 
Mohawk and the Hudson, and passed through the white settle- 
ments to the village of the guilty tribe. Having called a coun- 
cil of its warriors, he reproached them for their act of dis- 
respect toward their masters, and demanded the name of the 
man who first signed the deed. A chief arose and said it was 
his act. As he uttered this admission, the Mohawk struck 
him dead with his tomahawk, and turning on his heel went 
back upon his solitary path unmolested and unquestioned. 
This was heroism, although it was barbarous heroism. 

It was not only in courage that they surpassed all other 
tribes. The historian Smith states that in his day — 

The art of public speaking is in high esteem among the Indians and 
much studied. They are extremely fond of method, and are displeased 
with any irregular harangue because it is difficult to be remembered. 



266 APPENDIX 



We have many proofs of their skill in oratory and of the 
clearness and logic of their addresses. Even now, when their 
power is gone and their pride broken down, they have many 
orators among them. I have heard in my official life speeches 
made by them, and I have also listened to many of the distin- 
guished men of our own lineage ; while the untutored man 
could not arm himself with all the facts and resources at the 
command of the educated, yet I can say that I have heard from 
the chiefs of the Five Nations as clear, strong and dignified 
addresses as any I have listened to in legislative halls or at the 
bar of our judicial tribunals. Oratory is too subtle in its 
nature to be described, or I could give to you some of its 
finest expressions in Indian addresses. 

They did not excel merely in arms and oratory, they were 
a politic people. Monsieur de la Potiere, a Frenchman and an 
enemy, says in his history of North America : 

When we speak of the Five Nations in France they are thought, by a 
common mistake, to be mere barbarians, always thirsting for blood, but 
their characters are very diflferent. They are indeed the fiercest and most 
formidable people in North America, and at the same time are as politic 
and judicious as can well be conceived, and this appears from their 
management of all affairs which they have not only with the French and 
English, but likewise with almost all the Indians of this vast continent. 

As to their civil polity Colden says in 1747: 

Each of these nations is an absolute republic by itself, and every castle 
in each nation is governed in all public affairs by its own sachems or old 
men. The authority of these rulers is gained by and consists wholly in 
the opinion the rest of the nation have of their integrity and wisdom. 
Their great men, both sachems and captains, are generally poorer than 
the common people, and they affect to give away and distribute all the 
presents or plunder they get in their treaties or in wars, so as to leave 
nothing to themselves. There is not a man in the members of the Five 
Nations who has gained his office otherwise than by merit. There is 
not the least salary or any sort of profit annexed to any office to tempt 
the covetous or sordid, but on the contrary every unworthy action is 
unavoidably attended with the forfeiture of their commissions; for their 
authority is only the esteem of the people, and ceases the moment that 
esteem is lost. 



APPENDIX 267 



I have in my possession a copy of a large map printed in 
1755, which was published "with the approbation and at the 
request of the Lords Commissioners for Trade and Planta- 
tions," and made up from official papers and reports. This 
lays down the boundaries of the conquests of the Iroquois. 
They run on the south through the center of North Carolina 
to the Mississippi river; thence up that stream to a point oppo- 
site the west end of Lake Superior; then along the northerly 
side of the great lakes to the St. Lawrence, near Montreal, 
and from that point by an irregular line to the sea coast. It 
may seem incredible that a people whose warriors never 
exceeded five thousand in number could have carried their con- 
quests over this vast region. All their warlike expeditions 
must have been made on foot, through wilderness regions, or 
along rivers and over lakes in frail bark canoes. Yet the evidence 
that they waged war with the remote tribes of the South and 
West is conclusive. They fought with the Cherokees in 
Georgia, they made treaties with the Creeks, and they brought 
the Tuscaroras from their southern homes and placed them in 
western New York and made them the sixth tribe of their 
nation. 

With all their heroism the Five Nations could not have 
extended their conquests over this vast area but for another 
fact which it is proper to allude to here, for it had much to 
do with their power, and has had and will ever have a great 
influence in the course of events, both in peace and war, in 
our country. It is frequently said at the South, and it was 
lately stated by Governor Wise, of Virginia, that if the great 
rivers of our country had run in an easterly direction instead 
of their southern courses, this Union would have been severed 
by the late civil war. It may perhaps be said that but for 
that fact it would never have been formed, and it is doubtful 
if the civilization of our country would not today have been 
that of France instead of being of the English type. It is true 
that our Union is bound together by the silver cords of our 
rivers, whose valleys seem to stamp upon the face of our 



268 APPENDIX 



country the law of God, that it should be a land living under 
one government. 

These highlands upon which we meet today were the homes 
of the conquering Iroquois. They lived on these slopes or in 
the recesses of these valleys. They make in many ways the 
most remarkable range of hills to be found on the face of the 
earth. Extending across the southerly side of our State in an 
easterly direction, they are about three hundred miles in length 
and only at a few points rise more than two thousand feet 
above the level of the ocean. Yet from their sides flow waters, 
which run by all the great cities on our Atlantic except Boston. 
From its southern face its springs send their streams through 
the Delaware by Philadelphia to the Delaware Bay. through 
the Susquehanna by Baltimore to Chesapeake Bay, on the con- 
fluence of which stand Washington, Norfolk and Richmond. 
The waters of the Allegany drift by Pittsburg, Cincinnati, 
St. Louis and New Orleans to the Gulf of Mexico, while the 
interlocking streams in western New York run into Lake Erie, 
thence by the lakes and the St. Lawrence by Buffalo, Montreal 
and Quebec to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. On its northern 
face are the tributaries of the Mohawk and Hudson, flowing 
by Albany, Brooklyn and New York to the Atlantic ocean. 

These various rivers at their intermingled sources in this 
State make but gentle slopes ; but as they deepen and widen 
with their swelling floods, they cut in their onward course 
the country into great valleys, which are channels of commerce 
and intercourse in peace and the routes of armies in time of 
war. It was their position at the head of these great valleys 
which taught the Iroquois the Napoleonic strategy of war and 
enabled them to throw their united forces upon their enemies 
who were divided by ranges of mountains and thus cut off 
any combined resistance. One after another, the isolated tribes 
were subjugated. While their enemies were thus humiliated 
the Five Nations were made bold and daring. They gained 
in conquest not only the arts of war, but wisdom and skill in 
government. Says Colden : 



APPENDIX 269 



They strictly follow one maxim, formerly used by the Romans to 
increase their strength : that is, they encourage the people of other nations 
to incorporate with them, and when they have satisfied their revenge 
by some cruel example, they adopt the rest of their captives, who, if 
they behave well, become equally esteemed with their own people, so that 
some of these captives have afterwards become their greatest sachems. 

Thus not only their own conduct and courage but nature 
aided this people in their career of military glory and conquest. 
These hills about us were their strongholds. These valleys 
which stretch out their lengthened courses through our conti- 
nent were the pathways by which they sallied forth to make 
war upon their enemies. We who live in the ancient homes 
of a brave race, who in their day were conquerors and rulers, 
should cherish the traditions and honor the memories of those 
who, in the region overlooked by this College, displayed cour- 
age in war, wisdom in council, and loftiness in patriotism. 

It was to the work of carrying the cross to this proud, fierce, 
pagan and savage people that Kirkland devoted his life, and 
it became a life beset with dangers and clouded with suffering. 
In his early manhood he went out alone through the over- 
shadowing forests to the most remote and barbarous clan. 
I will not detail the incidents of his career. I told you of the 
savage heroism of the Mohawk, who went forth on his soli- 
tary journey, armed with weapons and painted with the sym- 
bols of death, to do his work of vengeance. I now point you 
to the Christian hero who sought alone in the deep wilderness 
those who imperiled his life, that he might do with them his 
w'ork of love and mercy. 

Beyond the dignity and power of the people to whom he 
was a missionary of the Christian religion, and beyond his 
own merits and services as a man, there is in the minds of 
those versed in the history of New York another aspect of 
his life which increases our interest in his career and adds to 
the impressiveness of this occasion. He was the last of that 
long line of missionaries who, for more than a century, were 
actors in the most dramatic events in the history of this conti- 



270 APPENDIX 



nent. Our national independence was wrought out by 
patriotic toils and sufferings which we cannot hold in too 
high reverence. But our national independence was a certain 
result of time, however, the first struggle might end. Back 
of that, there were events of higher interest and wider and 
more varied influences — those which decided the character 
of our civilization, those which determined what kind of people 
should govern this continent when it should be free from 
European control ; events which trained our fathers for the 
struggle of the revolution and gave them the wisdom to form 
our government and shape its institutions. 

For more than a century it was uncertain if French or 
English manners, customs and laws should dominate here. 
For more than a century the doubtful struggle was carried on 
under circumstances of the most romantic interest. Besides 
the force of arms and the art of diplomacy, religious influ- 
ences were actively engaged. The future of the continent was 
involved in the course of European events. The wars of Louis 
the Great and the victories of Marlborough, although they made 
great changes in the balance of power in Europe, were fol- 
lowed by far greater and more lasting results in America. 
This contest between the great powers was felt in every part 
of our continent. On the one hand, the English settlements 
were the most populous, but, on the other, the French held the 
interior of the country. If they could retain what they claimed 
by right of discovery, the English would be hemmed in along 
the sea coast, where no powerful nationality could be founded. 
The French demanded, by right of discovery, all the confluent 
rivers of the Mississippi and St. Lawrence valleys, which 
would give them the regions west of the Alleghanies and a 
large part of our own State. To oppose this claim, the British 
took the ground that the vast territory in dispute was held by 
the Iroquois by right of conquest, and that their alliance with 
the British government brought to it the region thus gained 
by their Indian allies by the force of their arms. The dwellers 
upon these hills and valleys around us were thus made the 



APPENDIX 271 



arbiters to decide what type of civilization, what form of 
government should prevail on this continent. Both of the 
European parties felt the power and rights of the Five 
Nations, and they saw, too, that these Indians held in these 
hills the stronghold of this field of contest. Both of those 
proud, kingly governments were suitors for the friendship of 
these savage tribes. Both put forth every effort of power and 
diplomacy for a long series of years to gain the alliance of 
the Romans of the West. 

There is nothing in the colonial histories of other States 
to compare in interest with the annals of this region, as they 
are recorded in the French, Dutch and English documents. In 
no other section were events of such importance or of such 
far-reaching consequence. The influence of the other colonies 
would have been of little value if the French had been the 
victors in this contest ; they would not have had the broad 
arena of the United States, as they now extend from the 
Atlantic to the Pacific, on which their teachings or examples 
could work out these results. While the long and dreadful 
struggle went on, the most influential allies of the French 
were their missionaries, animated alike by religious and 
patriotic zeal, they traversed the wildest regions on the borders 
of the Mississippi and the great lakes, and encountered, 
unarmed in their solitary v/anderings, all the dangers of inter- 
course with hitherto unknown savage tribes. It was upon 
the Iroquois that they exerted their utmost influences. One 
hundred and fifty years ago they were active among these hills 
and in the valleys which we now overlook. Although in many 
instances they suffered the most cruel deaths at the hands of 
the Indians, they persevered in their efforts to bring them 
over to the faith of their church and the support of their 
government. All of them were educated men. and some were 
of the noble families of France. When their labors were 
ended by the extinction of French power on this continent, the 
first to enter the field of their sufferings and toils was the 
missionary Kirkland. In the same spirit of religious zeal, 



272 APPENDIX 



partiotic devotion and heroic daring, he went out on his soli- 
tary pathway to the savage homes of the wilderness. More 
fortunate than those who went before him, his religious teach- 
ings took root and have never perished. More fortunate than 
his predecessors in another respect, he was able to render 
efficient support to his country's cause, for he, like them, had 
to mingle patriotic duties with religious labor. He held the 
Oneidas and Tuscaroras from joining the armies of Britain 
in the Revolutionary War, and after the establishment of our 
independence, he did much to restrain the whole confederacy 
from taking part in the general onslaught of the Indians on 
the western borders of our settlements. However much those 
missionaries differed in nationality and creed, the story of 
their common zeal, heroism and devotion will ever make one 
of the most fascinating chapters in the history of religious 
suffering and labor. 

It is well that the erection of this monument was put off 
until this time, for the value of events is better seen after the 
lapse of time, and in view of results, than at the period of 
their occurrence. The history of Kirkland excites more inter- 
est now than it did fifty years ago, and it will grow in interest 
through the coming century. He was not only a link between 
two great eras in the history of civilization in America, for 
he lived and acted in the periods of our colonial condition and 
of our national independence, but he was also the last of the 
chain of missionaries. Catholic and Protestant, whose religious 
teachings and political influences had so much to do with shap- 
ing the destinies of our country. The grand features of our 
State that made it the heart and center of great events in 
Indian warfare in the struggles between French and English 
civilization, and the great battle-field of the Revolution, have 
also made it the center of commerce, and its valleys the path- 
way through which the armies of immigration from the old 
world pour their vast array of numbers into our broad 
country. 



APPENDIX 273 



The rush of crowds from other States and countries in the 
past has obscured in the minds of citizens of New York its 
history and the cause of its greatness. Some one has sharply- 
said that men love to praise the States they are glad to come 
from, at the expense of the State they are glad to go to. But 
that men should dwell with pleasure upon the scenes and 
traditions of their birth-places and upon their early homes 
is natural; and hence in New York we hear much of all 
histories save our own. We have now reached a period when 
the native-born citizens outnumber all others, and they are 
turning their attention to the historical events of their own 
State. Among the first steps taken are the erection of monu- 
ments which more than all other forms of records, arrest 
attention and excite public interest. Commemorations of 
various kinds call out recitals and traditions of the past. New 
York should have a monumental history. One should be placed 
upon the battle-field of Oriskany, on the line of our great 
thoroughfare, to tell the throngs who pass by of Indian war- 
fare ; one at Saratoga, where the revolutionary struggle was 
virtually ended and the alliance of France was gained; one on 
the banks of the Hudson, at a point where the British fleets 
were resisted. 

We begin to find that the scenes around us are impressed 
with grave and thrilling events. As men grow in wealth they 
adorn their homes with pictures of acts or scenes. So as we 
grow in a knowledge of the history of our State, we find 
it coloring the scenes of our hills and valleys, making them 
glowing and glorious to the mind's eye. Knowledge adorns 
all nature around us as the artist adorns the walls of our 
homes. 

The work of teaching local history is not merely to minister 
to local pride. It gives enduring pleasure ; it elevates the 
mind; it purifies the tastes; it tends to make men better and 
more thoughtful. It should be taught in our academies and 
colleges, and above all, we should have in the State a clear, 



274 APPENDIX 



outlined history of New York, for our common schools, illus- 
trated after the manner of Lossing's Pictorial Field Book of 
the Revolution. 

The history of our country has heretofore usually been 
written in a provincial spirit ; but when it shall be presented 
in a more enlarged and philosophic way, it will be seen that 
the range of hills upon which we stand, the valleys of the 
Mohawk and the Hudson and the plains of western New York, 
have been the scenes of the most dramatic interest, and those 
which have told most upon the destinies of our country. No 
great history of our civilization and government can be written 
which does not make this State its central point. As this 
truth shall in the future be impressed upon the minds of our 
people, not only will the interest in the character of Kirk- 
land increase, but that college which he founded through his 
purpose to make it a means of education to the Indian as well 
as the white man, will be regarded as a memorial of a race 
which at one time held despotic rule over a region greatly 
exceeding the united territories of France and Britain. 

The relationship which its founder bears to the long line of 
missionaries who for a century labored with savage tribes in 
danger and sufifering, will give to the college a sacredness in 
its religious aspect. But it will not be merely a memorial of 
the past, for it fittingly crowns with its structures the range 
of hills from which flow the rivers which bind together our 
Union with silver bands, and it overlooks those valleys which 
have been traveled by armies in war, are the channels of com- 
merce in peace, and which will be in the future what they 
have been in the past, the pathways of great events. 



ALEXANDER HAMILTON 

Address of Elihu Root, upon the Presentation to 

Hamilton College by Thomas Redfied Proctor, 

of a Statue of Alexander Hamilton, 

June 17, 1918. 

In behalf of the Board of Trustees of Hamilton College I 
have the honor to accept this statue of the great man who 
one hundred and twenty-six years ago gave his name to the 
institution, and who stood first in the list of the incorporators 
and of the Trustees appointed by the Charter for the Hamil- 
ton Oneida Academy, which twenty years later was invested 
with the collegiate powers and privileges we now exercise. 

The generous loyalty which moved you to this gift is con- 
sistent with the long career of unselfish citizenship that marks 
you as an inheritor of the great tradition of public service 
which is the most precious possession of our country, and 
which found its highest inspiration in the life of Washington, 
and second only to him in the life of Alexander Hamilton. 

The title of the College to a special share in the memory of 
the Statesman whose name it bears, and the title of this 
memorial to its place on the College campus, may be read in 
the early records of the Regents of the University of the State. 

On the 1 2th of November, 1792, a petition was signed for 
the establishment of an Academy here on the edge of the 
Oneida woods for the education of Indians and whites, and 
this petition was considered by the Board of Regents on the 
29th of January, 1793. The journal record of the meeting 
reads : 

The respective applications of Samuel Kirkland and seven other persons 
praying that Alexander Hamilton and fifteen other persons for that 
purpose nominated may be incorporated by the name and style of the 
Trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy at Whitestown in the County of 
Herkimer, and of Joseph Yates and twenty-three other persons pray- 
ing that Abraham Yates Jr. and twenty-three other persons nominated 
in the said application may be incorporated by the style of the Trustees 
of the Academy of the town of Schenectady in the County of Albany, 
* * * were severally read and committed to the Vice Chancellor Gen- 
eral Clarkson and Mr. Verplanck. 

275 



276 APPENDIX 



After a favorable report by the sub-Committee 

The Board resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take the 
above report into consideration, and after some time spent thereon the 
■Chancellor resumed the chair, and General Schuyler from the said com- 
mittee reported that they had agreed to the report of the sub-committee, 
wereupon 

Resolved That the Board agree to the said report. 

Ordered That the Secretary prepare instruments in the usual form for 
incorporating the said Alexander Hamilton and the other fifteen persons 
for that purpose named, and the said Abraham Yates and the said twenty- 
three other persons named in the said application, and that the Chancellor 
affix the seal of the University to the said instruments. 

The General Schuyler named in the journal as reporting 
the agreement of the Committee was Philip Schuyler, the 
always loyal and affectionate father-in-law of Hamilton, the 
true hero of Saratoga, the noble gentleman whose name was 
borne by that Fort Schuyler then standing in the valley upon 
which we look from this hillside, in the place where since that 
day the noble City of Utica has come into being. 

The other Academy named in the resolution has grown into 
Union College and Union University. 

So the charter was prepared as the resolution directed, and 
was signed by George Clinton as Chancellor of the University 
and incorporated Alexander Hamilton and his associates into 
the Institution which now does him honor, and which is itself 
a monument to his name. 

I will read the list of the Trustees appointed by the cliarter. 
They were : 

Alexander Hamilton, John Lansing, Egbert Benson, Dan 
Bradley, Eli Bristol, Erastus Clark, James Dean, Moses Foot, 
Thomas R. Gold, Sewal Hopkins, Michael ]\Iyers, Jonas Piatt, 
Jedediah Sanger, John Sergeant, Timothy Tuttle, Samuel 
Wells. 

The first three of these were men of nation-wide reputation. 
John Lansing, later Chief Justice and Chancellor of the State, 
had been General Schuyler's military secretary, and was one 
of Hamilton's colleagues in the Convention of 1787. Egbert 
Benson, the first Attorney General of the State, was Hamilton's 



APPENDIX 277 



companion in the Annapolis meeting of 1786 which called the 
Convention of 1787, and was his close ally in urging the 
adoption of the Constitution. 

Of the others there is hardly one but played a conspicuous 
and honorable part in the history of this region, and their 
descendants may well look with satisfaction upon the record 
which links their fathers' names in association for a beneficent 
undertaking with this great figure of the world's history. 

Hamilton's interest in the new enterprise was not merely 
casual or personal. He was then Secretary of the Treasury 
and the dominant spirit in the cabinet of Washington's first 
Administration, The troublesome race question at that day 
was not black, or yellow, or brown; it was red. For thou- 
sands of miles westward from the comparatively feeble settle- 
ments upon the Atlantic seaboard extended a vast and unknown 
wilderness peopled by savage and warlike Indians. Hatred 
for the whites and a fierce determination to prevent further 
encroachment prevailed from the St. Lawrence to the Gulf. 
Every frontier community lived in dread of their sudden and 
remorseless forays. The Indian menace hung always like a 
black cloud on the Western horizon threatening the infant 
Republic. 

Samuel Kirkland, the brilliantly successful agent of Wash- 
ington during the Revolutionary War for the management 
of the Iroquois, was a most trusted advisor of the Administra- 
tion upon Indian affairs. He proposed to remedy the evil by 
educating, civilizing, and Christianizing the Indian. He pre- 
pared a plan of education which he urged upon the Administra- 
tion. It appears to have been referred to Timothy Pickering, 
then Postmaster General, and the paper containing his approv- 
ing discussion of the plan has been preserved. This Insti- 
tution was a part of the plan. It was to try out the plan by 
educating Indians and whites together; so the new enterprise 
enlisted the interest of the members and friends of Wash- 
ington's Government. Pickering approved it ; Hamilton become 
a part of it ; Schuyler reported favorably upon the charter ; 
18 



278 APPENDIX 



Baron Steuben laid the cornerstone of the new Academy. 
Alas, the plan of education was a dream ! The Indians in 
general proved incapable of receiving education, and the whites 
alone have profited by what was done. 

There was another reason for Hamilton's participation. He 
was deeply interested in education in his own State. It was 
Hamilton's Committee in the New York Legislature which 
reported the Act of 1787 creating the University of the State. 
It was Hamilton who drafted the report ; it was his construc- 
tive genius which gave form to the educational system of the 
State that endures to this day and the first act of the Regents 
of the University in exercise of the power to create institu- 
tions of learning vested in them upon Hamilton's initiative 
was to incorporate the Institution for which he stood sponsor, 
and to write his name at the head of the long and honored 
list of citizens who have given their free service to the cause 
of public instruction under the Constitution and laws of this 
State. 

But all this was a secondary incident in a great career. It 
explains why the statue should be here, but it does not explain 
why there should be a statue. 

We raise statues to Alexander Hamilton because the lessons 
of a century and a quarter have shown that the people of the 
United States owe to him a greater debt for the creation of the 
American Republic than to any other man save Washington. 

He was not greater than Washington, but the high quality 
and power and intense devotion and splendid achievement of 
his service for the cause of ordered liberty through self- 
government, set him next to Washington. The two supple- 
mented each other and worked together in perfect confidence 
and affection with a single purpose and the same just concep- 
tion of the essence of a government that should reconcile 
liberty and obedience to law, independence and peace, 
sovereignty and honor. Together they endured detraction and 
public abuse, and strove against ignorance and folly, and 
selfishness and prejudice and malice, against intriguers and 



APPENDIX 279 



demagogues and traitors, through the critical period which fol- 
lowed the recognition of independence, when the principles of 
the new Nation had to be determined, and the institutions to 
give them effect had to be established. At the end of that first 
formative period the great-hearted character of Washington 
and the marvelous insight of Hamilton's genius into the princi- 
ples that control human conduct, had given to the future of 
mankind the institutions of government which after a cen- 
tury's test of human weakness, of domestic and foreign war, 
of vast growth and prosperity, now bind together one hundred 
million people in the effective exercise of power to preserve 
Christian civilization, and to defend their liberty and the 
world's liberty. 

Hamilton was not greater than Lincoln, but if there had 
been no Hamilton, probably there would have been no Lincoln, 
because there would have been no Union for Lincoln to save. 

The treaty which closed the Revolutionary War removed 
the external force that alone secured any semblance of united 
action among the thirteen colonies, and there speedily ensued a 
state of confusion and absence of general direction and control 
almost comparable to the condition of Russia today. The 
Continental Congress under the old Articles of Confedera- 
tion had no power whatever. It could not levy taxes or com- 
mand money to pay its own expenses ; it could not raise troops 
nor maintain them. It could pass resolutions, but could not 
enforce them. It could make treaties, but could not keep the 
promises they contained. There was no national lawmaker or 
executive or judiciary. There could be no action, except by 
the unanimous agreement of all the thirteen States ; and when 
the war was over they ceased to agree. Each State was jealous 
of its own independent power, and absorbed in the pursuit of 
its own selfish advantage ; burdensome and vexatious inter- 
state tariffs and commercial restrictions prevailed. Bitter con- 
troversies had come to the verge of war. No national con- 
sciousness had been awakened ; and a people individually honest 
appeared to have no sense of collective or national honor. The 



280 APPENDIX 



obligations of the treaty of peace were grossly violated. The 
treaty promised security for the property of loyalists. The 
separate States confiscated their property. The treaty promised 
justice in the courts. The States nullified the promise. Foreign 
countries would not make commercial treaties with an alleged 
nation whose word was worthless. No one would loan money 
to a government that was unable to raise money to pay. Issues 
of inconvertible paper money speedily depreciating to nominal 
values completed the destruction of public credit. The specie 
in the country disappeared. Business returned to the method 
of barter. There was no security for the fruits of enterprise. 
There was general stagnation and distress. The farmers of 
Western Massachusetts — ignorant of the true nature of the 
evils which oppressed them — rose in rebellion against the 
State government. The Southwest discussed the formation of 
a separate confederacy. The failure of the American colonies 
to maintain any effective government seemed to have been 
demonstrated. 

With the instinctive comprehension of political problems in 
which he was superior to all other men of his time, Hamilton 
perceived the essential causes of demoralization which were 
urging the infant confederacy towards its ruin, and the nature 
of the remedies which were necessary. He saw that the Divine 
Right of Kings finds its support among men in the necessity 
of government, that justice and peace are impossible without 
government possessed of power to compel obedience to its laws. 
He saw that if the members of a political community would be 
free they could not rest with the repudiation of superior 
authority, but must supplement that repudiation by subjecting 
themselves as individuals to the control of an effective govern- 
ment, resting upon their own collective authority; that the 
organized power of self-government must take the place of 
the organized power of royal government, or liberty would 
perish in anarchy. He was not alone in this understanding; 
but he surpassed all others in the clearness of his vision, in 
capacity to apply theory to the practical affairs of life, so that 



APPENDIX 281 



untrained minds of narrow scope could understand what it 
meant for them, in power of clear and compelling exposition, 
in determination to make the people of his country see what 
he saw so clearly, and in the high courage and intensity of 
the warrior spirit striking for the victory of a great cause. In 
the Annapolis meeting where but five States were represented 
he drafted the address which called the Convention of 1787. 
His presence in the New York Legislature of 1787 was for 
the specific purpose of securing the appointment of delegates 
from New York to that Convention. He did his part in the 
Convention, hampered by colleagues who reflected the hostility 
of George Clinton to the movement. It is probable that he 
himself could not have brought about the compromises of the 
Constitution which were necessary to its acceptance. It is 
certain that he believed a far stronger government to be 
desirable, but he alone signed the Constitution as a representa- 
tive of New York, and he had the largeness to hold all minor 
questions of difference of no account compared with the over- 
whelming importance of creating a real national government. 
When the Constitution was signed, he became the first of its 
champions. A majority of the people of the country were 
against him. Local prejudices and personal interests opposed 
him. A great multitude in all the States were jealous of their 
individual liberty, and unwilling to surrender any portion of 
it upon the demands of a public policy which they had never 
learned to understand. The contest which followed and its 
result stand forth as the supreme example of the capacity of 
an unlettered Democracy to yield its prejudices to the force 
of reason made plain by high intelligence and driven home by 
the fervor of sincere patriotism. The' letters of The Fed- 
eralist, the major part of which Hamilton wrote, were read 
and studied in town and village and farmhouse. They 
furnished the material for discussion in the State conventions 
called to act on the new Constitution. They were not mere 
theoretical discussions. They dealt with the workings of 
human nature under g^overnment, and with the effect of the 



282 APPENDIX 



proposed provisions upon the daily life and affairs of the 
plain people. They overcame all opposition of argument, and 
instructed and convinced the candid minds of the multitude to 
whom they were addressed. The book which now contains 
them is universally recognized as one of the greatest if not 
the greatest of all works upon government. 

The most stubborn obstacle to the adoption of the new 
system was the political power of George Clinton in the State 
of New York. When the Convention of that State met, two- 
thirds of the people of the State, and four-sevenths of the 
members of the Convention, were opposed to the Constitution. 
On the 17th of June, one hundred and forty years ago this 
day, Hamilton entered the Convention for a parliamentary 
battle, which in merit and in fame has no equal in American 
history, except in the great debate when Webster replied to 
Hayne, He faced a solid adverse majority bound together 
by political allegiance to Clinton, with their minds determined, 
and apparently not open to argument. For more than a month 
with undivided leadership on the floor of the Convention, with 
splendid courage and persistency, and with unrivalled power 
of persuasive and compelling argument, he incessantly assaulted 
this solid and sullen phalanx. He broke the phalanx by con- 
vincing the judgment of the most logical and able of his 
antagonists, and by sheer force of personal power he destroyed 
the political organization which opposed him, and won the 
majority of the Convention to the adoption of the Constitution. 

When the new Government was formed, it still remained to 
make it a real and not a paper government. Adequate and 
effective organization must be created for the exercise of its 
powers. Sound principles must be followed in laws under 
which enterprise would revive ; foreign relations must be 
established upon a basis to command respect and ensure the 
dignity of independence and the benefits of commercial inter- 
course ; obedience to national authority must be compelled. 
Without these things, the experiment would still fail. Here 
again Hamilton was the man of the hour. As the first Secre- 



APPENDIX 283 



tary of the Treasury, he made the organization of the Treasury 
Department which has endured to this day, and which after 
more than a century is in this present month of June with 
perfect order and accountabihty receiving four bilHons of 
taxes, after marketing within the year at par over ten billions 
of bonds at low rates of interest. He raised the public credit 
from the dust, and industry and enterprise revived. He estab- 
lished a conception of National honor which has become a 
National tradition, proof against all assaults. As the dominant 
spirit in Washington's cabinet and the acknowledged leader of 
the Federal Administration, always in unison with Washing- 
ton himself, his clear vision led the way against the opposition 
of the Department of State to the policy of neutrality and 
abstention from European quarrels, and the ratification of the 
Jay treaty, that landmark of liberal diplomacy, against a temp- 
est of public protest. Without military office he directed and 
controlled the first exercise of armed power by the Government 
of the United States, before which the whiskey rebellion of 
1794 faded away, and the power of government under the 
Constitution to compel obedience was established. He did all 
these things under storms of abuse and villification, which 
now seem incredible. He had no weapons of defence but 
integrity, the broad wisdom of his action, and power of exposi- 
tion and argument. He had no faculty for political combina- 
tion or securing political favor. He had the ardent ambition 
of youth, but it urged him always to achieve great ends rather 
than selfish advantage. No consideration of personal popu- 
larity ever for an instant hindered or modified the expression 
of his convictions. He appealed to the nobler against the baser 
motives of his countrymen. He overcame prejudice and selfish 
impulse by impressing the common intelligence with the funda- 
mental and eternal truths upon which in all ages and places the 
order of human society depends. So great came to be the respect 
of his associates for his extraordinary powers and their con- 
fidence in the sincerity of his purposes that John Adams, speak- 
of his own administration said : " Hamilton was all the time 



2S4 APPENDIX 



the Commander-in-Chief of the House of Representatives, 
of the Senate, of the Heads of Departments, of General Wash- 
ington, and last and least if you will of the President of the 
United States." 

Hamilton's work was not for his own day alone. He trans- 
lated thought into action, and gave to his political conceptions 
the demonstration of permanent institutions founded upon 
them ; and the descendants of the people for whom he wrought 
have given to his ideals the immortality of a noble tradition. 

Self-government is an art which does not come to man by 
nature. It must be learned. Terrible experience proved that 
when the French overthrew the Bourbons, when the Mexicans 
overthrew Diaz, when the Russians overthrew the Romanoffs. 
Alexander Hamilton was the greatest teacher of the art of 
self-government in the history of the world. To him more 
than to any other save Washington is due that intelligent con- 
ception of the relation between liberty and law which enables 
this great, free people, more than a century after Hamilton's 
death, voluntarily, with alacrity, without the slightest fear of 
endangering their liberties, to vest in the President at Washing- 
ton as Commander-in-Chief of their Army and Navy the 
mightiest power ever exercised by a single man, with millions 
of soldiers and sailors in arms, millions of workmen making 
warhke supplies, billions of money — quantities beyond reah- 
zation — universal restrictions upon food and fuel and the 
conduct of business and of life, hard to bear, but cheerfully 
borne. It is due to Hamilton more than to any other save 
Washington that this people have a conception, a tradition, an 
ideal, of a Nation whose power is a bulwark of liberty, so 
that they are willing to make sacrifice for it, feeling that when 
they give up for it their means, and their peaceful careers, and 
their lives, and the lives of those dear to them, they are laying 
their offerings on the altar of liberty, enlarging power for the 
moment that liberty may live. 

This granite may crumble, this bronze may corrode, this 
College may be dissolved; but the monument of Alexander 
Hamilton's work will remain. 



INDEX 



Adams, Parker, 228. 
Admission, 126-27, 137-39. 
Administration of the College, 
letter of Gerrit Smith on, 201-8. 
Agriculture, instruction in, 28, 

32-34, 46-47, 5^56, 212, 214. 
Aid requested from the Legislature, 
169, 176, 184, 189, 190, 225, 229. 
Alexander, Caleb, elected Presi- 
dent, 120. 
compensation for services, 120- 
21. 
Alimini Association opposes re- 
moval of College to Utica, 232. 
Alumni trustees, 259-60. 
Amherst College, 20. 
Asbury African Church, New 

York, 18, 165. 
Astronomical observatory, 247-49. 
Atenis, Oneida chief, brings son to 

Academy, 71-73. 
Aukeand'yakon, Laurense, Oneida 
chief, brings son to Academy, 
70-71. 
Avery, Charles, 20. 
Backus, Azel, first President, 130, 

131, 168, 183. 
Backus, Robert, 176. 
Bacon, Josiah, 199. 
Bank stock, law relating to, 155- 

57. 
Baxter, William, 196. 
Belknap, Jeremy, 99. 
Bell, College, 119, 133. 
Benson, Egbert, 64, 68, 95, 276-77. 
Blackmer, Ephraim, 62. 
Blackmer, Joseph, 62. 
Blair, Seth, 61. 
Bloodgood, Francis, 111. 
Boarding house. See Commons 

Hall. 
Botanic Garden, Hamilton College, 
254, 257-59. 



Botanic Garden, New York, 164- 

65. 
Bradley, Dan, 61, 64, 68, 77. 
Bradley, Joel, 91. 

Brant, Joseph, Mohawk chief, 26, 
30. 

letter to Kirkland, 40-41. 
Brayton, George, 108, 113, 114, 

116, 126. 
Breese, Ai, 86. 
Bristoll, Eli, 61, 64, 65, 68, 86. 
Bristol, George, 1%. 
Bristoll, Joel, 62, 65, 99, 108, 113-16, 

119, 122, 126, 167-^. 
Bronson, Green Carrier, 194. 
Brown, Francis, elected President, 

1817, 177. 
Brown, Samuel Gilman, 20. 
Buildings, 128, 129, 162, 180. 

appropriations for, 162, 167, 

168, 186. 
repairs, 118-20. 
stone for, 129, 256. 
see also Commons Hall, Chapel, 
•Chemical laboratory. North 
College, Observatory, Oneida 
Hall, South College. 
Butler of the College, 158. 
Campus, enlargement, 119, 128, 132, 
162, 257. 
improvement, 128-29, 162, 182, 

196, 238, 254-59. 
report of the Curators, 254-59. 
Sargent's comment on, 253-54. 
surveyed, 128. 
Carnahan, James, 108, 113, 130. 
Casety, Thomas, 61. 

letter to Kirkland, 41-42. 
Caulkins, Ebenezer, 44, 47, 48, 94. 
letters to Peter Thacher, 80-81, 
87-88. 
Cemetery, 183, 257. 
Chapel, 139-40, 187-89. 

85 



286 



INDEX 



Charter, Hamilton College, 3H 104- 
7. 
text of, 107-111. 
changes proposed, 2Z7-2S>. 
amendments, 259-60. 
Charter, Hamilton Oneida Acad- 
emy, 4-5, 68-69. 
Chemical apparatus, appropriations 

for, 122, 124, 129, 163, 167. 
Chemical Laboratory, 259. 
Church, 133. 
Clark, Erastus, 61, 64, 65, 68, 70, 

77, 86, 90. 
Classes, 139. 

ainton, George, 4, 5, 281-82. 
College of Physicians and Surgeons 
in the City of New York, 112, 
166. 
College of Physicians and Surgeons 

in the Western District, 165. 
Columbia College, 18, 156, 164-^5. 
Commencement, 126, 153-54. 

music forbidden, 181, 188; per- 
mitted, 183. 
sheriff to keep order, 169. 
wine forbidden in church, 185. 
exercises omitted, 1832, 224. 
Commons Hall, 125, 128, 167. 
appropriations for, 131, 162. 
bill of fare, 159-61. 
rules governing, 1812, 157-61. 
to be leased, 191. 
Com Planter, Seneca chief, 46. 
Crimes and misdemeanors, 149-53, 

173-75. 
Curators of the College Grounds, 

252, 254-59. 
Curriculum, 129, 131, 141-45, 170- 
72, 181. 
revision proposed, 193, 211. 
extension of, 217-18. 
Cushman, Noah, 194-96. 
Cusick, Nicholas, Tuscarora chief, 

71, 73, 98. 
Darke, Robert, 62. 
Darling, Henry, 20. 
Dartmouth, William Legge, second 
earl of, 6, 10. 



Dartmouth College, 10, 19. 20. 
Davis, Henry, 176, 177, 179, 191, 
195, 200, 204-8, 216, 220, 
222, 224, 226. 
petition to the Regents, 197-99. 
Dean, James, 61, 64, 65, 68, 77. 
Debating, 143^W, 226. 
Debts of the College, 219, 224, 225, 

229-37. 
Declamation. See Public speaking. 
Decline of the College, 1827-29, 18, 

191-217. 
Degrees, 110, 153-54, 169. 
Denio, Hiram, 247, 248. 
Diploma, 168. 

Divinity, Professorship of, 195, 220. 
Downing, Andrew Jackson, 253. 
Dwight, Henry, 177, 203. 
Dwight, Sereno Edwards, 18, 227, 
229 
raises endowment fund, 234, 

237. 
resignation of Presidency, 22)Z- 
36. 
Dwight. Timothy, visits Whites- 
town, 15-16, 100. 
Eells, James, 108, 113, 116, 122, 125, 

133. 
Endowment, 18, 191, 197. 

appropriations by the State, 

111-12.' 123-24, 165, 178. 
fund of 1822-34, 234. 237. 
lands, value of, 131-32. 
Maynard fund, 225-27, 229. 
Utica citizens, proceedings in 

regard to, 222-23. 
Utica funds, 226, 229, 231. 
see also Salaries, funds for ; 
Lottery fund. 
Engineering courses proposed, 1820, 

212. 
Entrance requirements, 126-27, 137- 

39. 
Examinations, 137, 144. 

f^nal, 145, 172. 
Executive committee of the Trus- 
tees, 221-22. 
Exhibitions, 145. 



INDEX 



287 



Expenses of students, 103, 180, 185. 
Faculty, powers of, 136, 169-70. 
Fairfield Academy, 106. 
Fences, 133, 255, 256, 257. 
Finances, 1827, 192. 

investigation of, 212. 
Fines, 150-53, 173-75. 
Firewood, 158. 
Fish, Walter, 108, 113. 
Fisher, Samuel Ware, 12, 20, 246, 

258. 
Foot, Brunson, 62. 
Foot, Ira, 63. 

Foot, Moses, 61, 64, 68, 77. 
Football prohibited, 150. 
Ford, Simeon, 108, 113, 116. 
Founding of the College, 112. 
Fowler, Philemon Halsted, 246, 251. i 
Games, 151. 
Garden, College, 158, 212, 214. 

Hamilton Oneida Academy, 28, 
46-47, 55-56. 
German, Obadiah, 108, 113. 
Gold, Thomas Ruggles, 63, 68, 77, 
90, 108, 113-16, 119, 122, 125, 186, 
189, 190. 
Good Peter, Oneida chief, 47, 58. 
Goodwin, Stephen A., 194. 
Graduate students, 139-40, 211-12. 
Graduation, 153-54. 
Griffin, Nathaniel, 62. 
Gridley, Amos Delos, 252, 254, 256- 

59 
Gridley, Philo, 196, 251. 
Gymnasium, 259. 
Hadley, James, 219, 220. 
Hamilton, Alexander, 4, 12, 64, 66, 
67, 68, 91. 
consents to be a trustee, 58. 
address by Elihu Root on, 275- 
84. 
Hamilton Oneida Academy, history, 
12-17. 
Thomas Casety urges establish- 
ment, 41. 
location proposed, 26, 27, 46, SO, 

91-94. 
curriculum, 55-56, 103. 



Hamilton Oneida Academy, sub- 
scription form, 58-60. 
petition for a charter, 64-65. 
plan for administration of, 49- 

56. 
gifts, original subscriptions, 61- 

63. 
Kirkland's, 70, 97, 98; deed of 

land, 90-94. 
state appropriations, 101, 104. 
incorporated by the Regents, 

4-5, 58, 66-^7. 
Charter, 68-69. 
trustees, 5, 70, 276-77. 
first building, 1793, 7A, 80-81, 87. 
Indian council in relation to, 

71-75. 
Caulkins as Principal, 1793, 80- 

81, 87-88. 

John Sergeant's comment on, 79. 

trustees' petition to the Society 

for Propagating Christian 

Knowledge, 75-77. 

laying of the corner stone, 13, 

14, 84-86. 
loans, 86, 89-90. 
condition, 1796-1807, 95-%, 

99-101, 103. 
trustees petition for a college 

charter, 104-7. 
property transferred to the Col- 
lege, 111, 162. 
school continued by the Trus- 
tees of the College, 123. 127. 
history of the academy build- 
ing, 118-19, 211, 258. 
Hart, Ephraim, 108, 113, 114, 116, 

122, 125. 
Hart, Ezra, 62 
Hart, Thomas, 62. 
Harvard College, 19, 49. 

supports Indian boy in the 
Academy, 101-2. 
Hastings, John C, plans improve- 
ment of campus, 255, 259. 
Hedges, 257. 

Herrick, Job, sells land for campus, 
132. 



288 



INDEX 



History, Local, study of, 273-74. 
Hooker, Philip, architect of chapel, 

188-89. 
Hopkins, Sewall, 61, 64, 65, 68, 11, 

194. 
Hopper, Jasper, 108, 113, 116. 
Hotchkiss, William, 108, 113. 
Huntington, Henry, 108, 113, 114, 

116, 122, 125. 
Indian education, 26, 43, 44, 57. 

address of Indians to Regents, 

69-70. 
council in relation to, 71-75. 
grant by Congress, 43. 
see also Plan of education. 
Indian pupils in the Academy, 47, 
70-76, 81, 87-^, 98, 100. 101-2. 
Indian traders, 34, 38. 
Indians, Kirkland's mission, 82-83. 

missionaries to, 6, 269-72. 
Indians, see also Atenis, Aukeand- 
'yakon. Brant, Cusick, Corn 
Planter, Good Peter, Iroquois, 
Kaghhelayen, Oneidas, Onon- 
dagoes, Miamees, Reed, Senecas, 
Skenandoa, Solegwaston. 
Iroquois, address of Horatio Sey- 
mour on, 263-74. 
treaty, 1792, 11. 
Johnson, Sir William, 7, 8. 
Johnson, William, elected President, 

122, 130. 
Kaghhelayen, Oneida chief, 71. 
Kellogg, Amos, 63. 
Kellogg, Solomon, 86. 
Kemp, John, letters to Kirkland, 

3^40, 81-83. 
Kent, James, 4, 106. 

drafts charter for the College, 
107. 
Kingston Academy, petition for a 

college charter, 104-6. 
Kip, James Samuel, 108, 113, 116, 

122. 
Kirkland, Charles Pinckney, 222, 

227. 
Kirkland, Daniel, 6. 
Kirkland, George Whitefield, 94. 



Kirkland, John, 124. 
Kirkland, John Thornton, 19, 96-^8. 
Kirkland. Joseph, 86, 108, 113-17, 
122, 125, 167, 169, 182, 200, 222- 
23. 
Kirkland, Ralph W., 61. 
Kirkland, Samuel, 6-15, 22. 

commission as missionary, 8, 9, 

25. 
plan for Hamilton Oneida 
Academy, 49-56. See also 
Plan of education, 
gifts to the Academy, 61, 70, 

97, 98. 
deed of land to the Academy, 

13, 90-94. 
thanks of trustees, 70. 
journey to the Seneca country, 

74. 
poplars planted by, 1805, 255. 
burial in the College Cemetery, 

183, 244. 
dedication of monument, 1873, 

244, 263-74. 
selections from Journal, 26-27, 

57-58, 71-75, 99-100. 
letter to J. T. Kirkland, 96-98 ; 
to Henry Knox, 32-34; to 
Stephen Van Rensselaer, 89- 
90; to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 
66. 
address to Indians regarding the 
Academy, 73-75. 
Knox, Henry, letter from Kirk- 
land to, 32-34. 
Knox, John Jay, 212, 225, 230. 
Lands, sale of. 229. 
Lansing, Dirck Cornelius, 108, 113, 

116, 122. 
Lansing, John, 64, 68. 
Laird, Samuel, 62. 
Lathrop, John Hiram, 196. 
Law professorship, 225-26, 230, 

223. 
Law school, location in Utica, 233, 
239. 
examinations, 243. 



INDEX 



289 



Laws of New York. 

endowment of the College, 111- 

12, 15S-57. 
Literature lottery, 17-18, 163- 

66. 
relief of the College, 178-79. 
protection of sidewalks, 189. 
appropriations for the College, 

239, 252-53. 
law department, 243. 
amendment to Charter, 260. 
Laws of the College, 131, 135-54, 

169-75. 
Lectures, 140, 141, 143, 171, 211. 
Legislature, petitioned for aid, 169, 
176, 184, 189, 190, 225, 229. 
requires statement on condition 
of College. 213, 214. 
Library, 132, 163, 167, 211, 249-51. 
gifts to, 129, 132. 
rules, 132, 153. 
Literature lottery, 17-18, 163-66. 
Longitudes, determination of, 248- 

49. 
Lothrop. John Hosmer, 108, 113-17, 
126, 157, 162, 167, 184, 187, 188, 
193. 
Lothrop, Samuel Kirkland, quoted, 

112-13. 
Lottery law. 17-18, 163-66. 
Lottery fund, 164, 178, 185, 230, 

239, 242. 
Lynch, James, 184. 
McNeil, Henry, 108, 113, 114. 116, 

122, 126. 191. 
Massachusetts Indian Society, 49. 
Matriculation, 138. 
Maynard. William Hale, bequest to 
the College, 225-27, 229, 231, 238. 
Medical Society of Oneida County, 

194. 
Metcalf. Arunah. 108, 113. 
Miamee Indians, 47. 
Middle College, 184, 186. 
Miller, Morris Scott, 108, 113-16, 

119, 122. 
Miller, Samuel, elected President, 
121-22 



Missionaries to the Indians, 6, 269- 

12. 
Monitors, 140. 
Montague, Joseph, 130. 
Monteith, John, 193. 
Moor's Charity School, Lebanon, 
Conn., 6-7, 10, 11. 

inquiries concerning, 40, 81-82. 
Morse, James Otis, 211, 219, 220, 

225, 230, 239. 
Music forbidden at commencement, 
181, 188. 

permitted, 183 
Myers, Michael, 64, 65, 68. 
New York laws. See Laws of New 

York. 
New York Historical Society, 165. 
North, Edward, 20, 257. 
North, Simeon, 210, 245-46, 255, 256. 
North, William, 84. 
North College, 186-88, 238. 
Norton, Asahel Strong, 91, 108, 
113-17, 122, 125, 133. 

elected Professor of Theology, 
123. 
Norton, Seth, 123, 129, 183. 
Nott, Eliphalet, 242. 
Noyes, Josiah, 121-22, 218-19. 
Observatory, 251, 256, 259. 
Oneida County, Citizens of, 199-200. 
Oneida Hall, 118-19, 211, 258. 
Oneida Indians, 34-35. 

address to the Regents, 69-70. 

villages, 32. 
Onondaga Indians, 26. 
Opening of the College, 123, 126. 
Pastoral Professor, 220, 221. 
Penney, Joseph, 20, 237, 240-41. 
Peters, Christian Henry Frederick, 

20, 247, 251. 
Phelps, Oliver, 63, 66. 
Phelps, Silas, 62. 
Phoenix Society, library, 249-51. 
Physics, apparatus, 133. 
Pickering, Timothy, 12. 

letter to Kirkland, 35-38. 



290 



INDEX 



Plan of Education, 12-14, 27-31, 
277-78. 
agriculture, 32-34, 46-47, 55-56. 
expense, 32-34, 45-46. 
Kirkland's letter to Knox, 32- 

34. 
John Kemp's letters to Kiric- 

land, 39-40, 81-83. 
comment by Joseph Brant, 40- 
41 ; by Timothy Pickering, 
35-38; by John Sergeant, 
78-80; by Edward Wiggles- 
worth, 42-43. 
approved by Washington and 
Hamilton, 58; by Board of 
Commissioners, 48-49 ; by 
Society for Promoting Chris- 
tion Knowledge, 39; by 
Regents, 57-58. 
discussed with the Indians, 71. 
Society for Promoting Chris- 
tian Knowledge withdraws 
support, 82. 
Piatt, Jonas, 61, 64, 65, 68, 11, 90, 
94, 108, 113-19, 122, 125, 183, 
188. 
Post office at the College, 231. 
Preaching, 133, 247. 
President of the College, duties, 
136, 150, 170, 191, 247. 
salary, 116-17, 123, 193-94, 247. 
report to the Trustees, 141, 237. 
to visit students' rooms, 150, 
191. 
President's house, 125, 128, 133, 247, 

255. 
Princeton College, 7, 20. 
Prizes for public speaking, 168. 
Professors, duties, 169-72. 
salaries, 117, 125, 193-94. 
allowed board in commons, 167. 
to visit students' rooms, 170- 
71, 191. 
Professors' houses, 231. 
Professorships, 117, 191, 217-18. 
Public speaking. 142-43, 182, 186. 
Race question, 277-78. 
Randall, Nicholas Pike, 214. 



Reed, Jacob, Oneida Indian, 70, 87. 
Regents of the University of the 
State of New York, 5, 57, 
58. 
proceedings, 66, 94-96, 99-103, 
104-7, 111, 163, 182-87, 191, 
199, 212, 223, 226, 229-31, 238, 
244, 248-9, 252, 259 
report to, 1818-19, 180-82. 
require special report on the 
state of the College, 200, 208, 
212-13, 215-17. 
Religious exercises, 139-40. 

instruction, 228. 
Reorganization of the College, Ger- 
rit Smith's plan, 1828, 201-8, 210, 
217-19 
Revolutionary War, Kirkland's 

services, 11, 269, 272, 277. 
Rhetoric professorship, 195, 212, 

218. 
Roberts, Seth, 63. 

Root, Elihu, "Centenary of Hamil- 
ton College," 1-22. "Alexander 
Hamilton," 275-84. 
Root, Oren, Sr., 20, 252, 256-59. 
Root, Oren, Jr., 20. 
Salaries, 116, 117, 123, 130. 132, 
193-94, 247. 
funds for, 234, 239, 252-53. 
Sanger, Jedediah, 61, 64, 68, 86, 

108, 113, 114, 116, 122, 126. 
Sargent, Henry Winthrop. descrip- 

of the campus, 253-54 
Schenectady Academy. 5. 67. 
Scholarship funds, 238. 
Schuyler, Philip, 95, 276. 
Schuyler, Fort, Kirkland chaplain 

at, 11. 
Seal of the College, 118, 119 133. 
Secret societies forbidden, 175. 
Sedgwick, Abraham W., 113, 122, 
125. 
first steward of commons, 161, 
168. 
Semi-centennial of the College, 252. 
Seneca Indians, 26, 27. 



INDEX 



291 



Sergeant, John, 64, 68, 82, 83. 

subscription to the Academy, 

61. 
criticism of the Plan of edu- 
cation, 78-80. 
Seymour, Henry, 222. 
Seymour, Horatio, Address st dedi- 
cation of Kirkland monument, 
263-74. 
Shale paths, 257. 
Sheriff of Oneida County to attend 

commencement, 169. 
Sidewalk to Qinton, 168, 189. 
Six Nations. See Iroquois. 
Skenandoa, John, Oneida chief, 70, 

71. 72,, 84, 183, 244, 263. 
Smith, Gerrit, plan for the adminis- 
tration of the College, 200, 
201-8, 210. 
solicits funds, 228. 
Smith, Peter, 63, 108, 113. 114, 116, 

122. 
Snowden, Samuel Finley, 130. 
Societies, student, regulation, 175. 
Society in Scotland for Propagating 
Christian Knowledge, 6, 10, 
26, 32. 
appoints Kirkland a missionary, 

25. 
approves Plan of education, 39, 

48-49. 
inquires regarding Moor's 

school, 81-82. 
withdraws support of Plan of 

education, 82. 
petition of trustees of Academy 
to, 75-77. 
Solegwaston, Isaac, Oneida Indian, 

101-2. 
South College. 162, 167, 168. 
Special students, 212. 
Spencer, Ichabod Smith, elected 

President, 226, 227. 
Spencer, John Canfield, elected 
Professor of Law, 230. 



Spencer, Joshua Austin, 223, 230, 

2ZZ, 242. 
Spring, Gardiner, elected President, 

177, 179. 
Stanwix, Fort, Indian conference 

at, 7, 10 
Steward, 133, 157-61, 162, 167, 168. 
Steuben, Frederick William, baron 
von, 13, 14. 
Address at laying of comer 
stone of Academy, 84-86. 
Strong, Theodore, 193. 
Students, admission, 123. 
number, 1817-1828, 198 
resolutions adopted by, 1828, 
194. 
Sullivan's expedition, 1779, 11. 
Sunday observance, 140. 
Surveying, instruction in, 212, 222. 
Thacher, Peter, letter of E. Wig- 
glesworth to, 42-43. 
letter of Kirkland to, 43-48. 
Thayendenagea, see Brant, Joseph. 
Theolog:.-, professorship of, 191, 

195, 220, 221. 
Tompkins, Daniel D., 111. 
Trustees of the College, 108. 
elected by alumni, 259-60. 
reply to the Regents, 200, 208- 

10, 213, 215-17. 
rules of the Board, 117. 
Tuition, 167, 180. 

receipts from, 1829-1832, 232. 
Tutors, duties, 172, 191. 

salaries, 130, 132. 
Tuttle, Oliver, 63. 
Tuttle, Timothy, 61, 64, 68, 77. 
Union College, 5, 18, 67, 155-57, 

164, 185, 230, 239, 242. 
Union Society, library, 249-51. 
University of the State of Xew 
York. See Regents of the Uni- 
versity of the State of New 
York. 
Upson, Anson Judd, 21, 249. 



292 



INDEX 



Utica, N. Y., relation to the College, 
18, 19. 
citizens of, 222-23, 226. 
establishment of law school in, 

233, 239. 
removal of the College to, 18, 
227-28, 232, 233, 235, 240. 
Utica, Bank of, 165. 
Vacations, 126, 145-46. 
Van Rensselaer, Stephen, 84, 89-90. 
Wadsworth, Jeremiah, 66. 
Washington, George, 12, 58, 277. 
Wayland, John, 218-20. 
Wells, Samuel, 62, 64, 68. 
West, Stephen, letter to Peter 

Thacher, 89. 
Wetmore, Edmund Arnold. 245, 252. 



Wheelock, Eleazer, 5-10, 25. 
Wigglesworth, Edward, letter to 

Peter Thacher, 42-43. 
Willard, Joseph, letter to Samuel 

Kirkland, 101-2 
Wager, David, 223 
Williams, Nathan, 108, 113, 114, 

116, 122, 125. 
Williams, Othniel, 196. 
Williamson, Major, 84. 
Willoughby, Westel, 121-22. 
Woodsheds, 162. 
Yale College, 20. 
Yates, Andrew, 226. 

letter of Gerrit Smith to, 201-8. 
Yates, Joseph, 67. 



